Hipolito Unanue: political power, illustrated science and enviromental health

Abstract

Hipolito Unanue is considered as the Founding Father of Peruvian medicine. He was closely related to political affairs and he was one of the most important exponents of science during the late colonial period. However, his contributions in what is now called environmental health have been largely unnoticed. This paper presents an analysis of Dr. Unanue’s studies, particularly his papers on weather, air, water, and vectors; so this may support the proposal for considering Dr. Hipolito Unanue as a pioneer for environmental health in Peru.