Charles Drew | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : April 07, 2025

Who is Charles Drew?

Charles Richard Drew was a pioneering African American physician and medical researcher best known for his groundbreaking work in blood storage and processing. Born in Washington, D.C., in 1904, Drew demonstrated remarkable athletic abilities in his youth, later earning a sports scholarship to Amherst College. After completing his bachelor’s degree, he pursued a medical degree at McGill University, where he excelled academically and completed his Doctor of Medicine and Master of Surgery. His innovative research in blood plasma preservation during his studies laid the foundation for modern blood banking.

Drew's contributions became especially significant during World War II when he directed the blood plasma programs for both the United States and Great Britain. He organized efforts that led to the collection and shipment of thousands of pints of plasma to wounded soldiers. Despite these achievements, Drew resigned from his position with the American Red Cross due to their racially segregated policies regarding blood donation from African Americans. After returning to Howard University as a professor and chief surgeon at Freedmen’s Hospital, Drew continued to influence the medical field until his untimely death in 1950. His legacy remains profound, inspiring future generations and influencing blood donation and medical practices today.

Early Life and Education

Charles Richard Drew was born in 1904 in Washington, D.C., into a modest family where his father worked as a carpet layer. From an early age, Drew showcased exceptional athletic abilities, particularly in swimming, and later excelled in football and basketball during his time at Dunbar High School. After graduating in 1922, he pursued higher education at Amherst College on a sports scholarship, where he became a standout athlete on both the track and football teams, further developing the determination that would later define his medical career.

Upon completing his bachelor's degree in 1926, Drew faced financial barriers that delayed his ambition of attending medical school. To overcome this challenge, he took a position as a biology instructor and coach at Morgan College, now known as Morgan State University, for two years. In 1928, Drew's persistence paid off when he was accepted into McGill University in Montreal, Canada. At McGill, he impressed faculty members as a dedicated student, earning accolades such as a neuroanatomy prize and graduating second in his class in 1933 with both Doctor of Medicine and Master of Surgery degrees. His time at McGill solidified his expertise in transfusions, leading him to groundbreaking innovations in blood storage and processing.

Father of Blood Banks: Notable Career Start

Charles Richard Drew emerged as a groundbreaking figure in the field of medicine during the early 20th century, most notably recognized as the "Father of Blood Banks." His innovative work focused on the processing and storage of blood plasma, ultimately transforming the landscape of blood transfusions. After completing his medical education at McGill University, where he excelled as a student, Drew returned to the United States, where he began to share his knowledge and expertise as an instructor at Howard University. His dedication to improving medical practices would soon lead him to play a vital role during World War II.

In 1938, Drew's exceptional research on blood plasma caught the attention of influential medical institutions. He secured a prestigious Rockefeller Fellowship at Columbia University, where he further developed his pioneering methods for blood preservation. This groundbreaking research culminated in his doctoral thesis titled "Banked Blood," which laid the foundation for the establishment of blood banks. His system enabled the safe collection and storage of blood plasma, drastically improving its availability for medical needs, especially during crisis periods such as wartime. Drew's innovative approaches not only saved countless lives but also marked the beginning of a new era in transfusion medicine.

Career Success and Achievements

Charles Richard Drew made significant strides in the medical field, particularly in the processing and storage of blood plasma, which is essential for blood transfusions. His groundbreaking work led to the establishment of the first blood banks, a concept that revolutionized emergency medicine and surgical practices. During World War II, Drew directed the blood plasma programs for both the United States and Great Britain, where his efforts facilitated the collection of over 14,500 pints of plasma for military casualties. This remarkable contribution underscored the critical role of stored blood in saving lives during wartime, showcasing Drew’s innovative approach to medicine.

Despite his monumental successes, Drew faced challenges, notably with racial discrimination in the military. After developing a blood bank for the American Red Cross, he resigned in protest against the segregation of blood donated by African Americans. Drew’s refusal to accept this unjust policy illustrated not only his commitment to equality but also his integrity as a physician. In 1944, Drew was honored with the Spingarn Medal from the NAACP, recognizing his invaluable contributions to blood donation and medical research. His legacy is immortalized through numerous posthumous awards and recognition, ensuring that his extraordinary achievements continue to inspire future generations in the medical field.

Death and Legacy

Charles Drew's legacy is marked by his groundbreaking contributions to blood banking and transfusion medicine. After creating two of the first blood banks, he returned to Howard University in 1941, where he became a professor and led the department of surgery. Drew's commitment to medicine and healthcare for African Americans was evident in his work as the chief surgeon at Freedmen's Hospital. He became the first African American examiner for the American Board of Surgery. His groundbreaking work not only improved medical practices but also paved the way for future advancements in transfusion medicine.

Drew's efforts during World War II were instrumental in the collection and distribution of blood plasma, earning him recognition and accolades, including the Spingarn Medal from the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. He was highly regarded in his professional community and left a lasting impact through his dedication to the field of surgery and education. Tragically, Drew's life was cut short at the age of 45 due to a car accident in 1950. Nonetheless, his contributions continue to resonate, inspiring generations of medical professionals and serving as a testament to his enduring legacy in the fight against racial inequality in healthcare.

Personal Life: Married Life and Children

Charles Drew was married to Minnie Drew, and their union was marked by a deep partnership and shared values. Together, they navigated the challenges that accompanied Drew's pioneering medical career and the societal issues of their time. Despite his demanding work schedule and the toll of World War II, Drew prioritized his family life, often finding solace and joy in the company of his wife and children. Their marriage was built on mutual respect and support, deeply influencing Drew's journey as both a physician and a community leader.

The couple had four children, and Drew was known to be a devoted father. He took great pride in his role as a parent, emphasizing education and moral values to his children. Drew's commitment to his family extended beyond mere obligations; he was actively involved in their lives, encouraging them to pursue their passions and excel academically. His legacy as a medical trailblazer was paralleled by his dedication to his family, embodying the importance of nurture and love alongside professional ambition.

Net Worth and Earning: Salary

Charles Drew, renowned for his pioneering work in blood storage and processing, became a pivotal figure in medical history. While specifics regarding his net worth and earnings during his lifetime are not extensively documented, it's important to recognize that Drew achieved professional prominence primarily through his contributions to medical research and practice, rather than wealth accumulation. Positions he held, such as faculty roles at Howard University and his leadership in blood bank initiatives during World War II, would have provided a stable income. However, the nature of academic and medical salaries in the mid-20th century was considerably different than today, often reflecting systemic limitations.

Despite the lack of detailed financial records, Drew's legacy is marked by the significant impact he made rather than monetary gain. His work, particularly as the director of blood plasma programs in both the United States and Great Britain, exemplified his commitment to medicine and public service rather than the pursuit of wealth. Drew's focus on humanitarian efforts during a time of war speaks volumes about his dedication and selflessness, which transcended any financial considerations he might have faced as a medical professional.

FAQs

Who was Charles Drew?

Charles Richard Drew was an African American physician and medical researcher known for his pioneering work in blood plasma storage and processing. He developed methods that led to the establishment of blood banks, significantly improving blood transfusion procedures, especially during World War II.

What contributions did Drew make during World War II?

During World War II, Charles Drew led blood plasma programs for the U.S. and the U.K., organizing the collection and distribution of blood plasma to treat casualties. He is credited with collecting approximately 14,500 pints of plasma, which saved countless lives.

What was Drew's educational background?

Charles Drew graduated from Amherst College in 1926 and then attended McGill University in Montreal, Canada. He graduated from McGill in 1933 with both Doctor of Medicine and Master of Surgery degrees, becoming a top student in his class.

Why did Drew resign from the American Red Cross?

Drew resigned from the American Red Cross due to the military's racist policy of segregating blood donations from African Americans. Initially refusing to accept African American blood, the military later stated it could only be used for African American soldiers, which outraged Drew.

What were Drew's career achievements?

Drew became a professor at Howard University's medical school, the chief surgeon at Freedmen's Hospital, and the first African American examiner for the American Board of Surgery. He was also awarded the Spingarn Medal by the NAACP in recognition of his contributions.

How did Charles Drew die?

Charles Drew died in a car accident on April 1, 1950, while attending a medical conference at the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama. Despite the tragic loss at only 45 years old, his legacy as a pioneer in medicine remains impactful.