Physician, scientist, influential Quaker.

Argued for the repeal of the Stamp Act (1765). With Franklin, worked to encourage reconciliation between England and the American colonies prior to the declaration of war.

Apprenticed to an apothecary. Studied medicine in Edinburgh. Established a lucrative medical practice in London (1740). Wrote several well-respected treatises on diseases such as influenza and scarlet fever, and was influential in the establishment of the medical department of the College of Philadelphia.

Interested in botany, Fothergill established a botanical garden on his estate near Stratford and supported the work of plant scientists.

Born in Wensleydale, Yorkshire. Second son of John and Margaret Fothergill.