Currency
Japan & Australia
Financial Success
Master D.M.Lee | 7/5/2023
Hideyo Noguchi - Japan
Hideyo Noguchi (1876-1928) was a prominent Japanese bacteriologist and physician who made significant contributions to the field of medical research. Here are some key points about Hideyo Noguchi and his accomplishments:
Early Life and Education: Hideyo Noguchi was born on November 24, 1876, in Inawashiro, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan. He faced financial challenges but showed exceptional academic abilities. Noguchi attended local schools and later received a scholarship to study at Tokyo Medical School (now the University of Tokyo).
Hideyo Noguchi (1928) and his mother Shika
Research on Syphilis: Noguchi's early research focused on the study of syphilis, a sexually transmitted disease. He developed an interest in the treponema pallidum bacterium, which causes syphilis, and conducted groundbreaking experiments to isolate and identify it. Noguchi's work significantly contributed to the understanding and diagnosis of syphilis.
Work in the United States: In 1900, Noguchi traveled to the United States to further his scientific career. He worked at prominent institutions, including the Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research (now Rockefeller University), where he collaborated with renowned scientists of the time. Noguchi's research at the Rockefeller Institute led to important discoveries in the fields of bacteriology and immunology.
Dr Hideyo Noguchi in his laboratory at the Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research. (Photo: Hideyo Noguchi Memorial Foundation)
Contributions to Yellow Fever Research: One of Noguchi's most significant contributions was his work on yellow fever. He traveled to various countries, including Africa and Central America, to study the disease. Noguchi's research led to the identification of the yellow fever virus and the development of diagnostic tests. His efforts helped pave the way for the development of vaccines and effective control measures against the disease.
Legacy and Honors: Hideyo Noguchi's contributions to medical science were internationally recognized. He received numerous awards and honors for his achievements, including the Order of the Sacred Treasure from the Japanese government. The Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research in Ghana and the Noguchi Institute for Medical Research in Tokyo were established in his honor.
The Order of the Sacred Treasure - Source
Tragic Death: Hideyo Noguchi died at the age of 51 on May 21, 1928, due to complications from yellow fever. While conducting research on the disease, he accidentally contracted it and succumbed to the illness.
Hideyo Noguchi's work continues to have a lasting impact on the fields of bacteriology, immunology, and tropical medicine. His dedication to scientific research and his contributions to the understanding and control of diseases have made him an influential figure in the history of medical science.
Mary Reibey - Australia
Mary Reibey (1777-1855) was a notable figure in Australian history. She was an emancipated convict who became a successful businesswoman and philanthropist. Here are some key points about Mary Reibey and her contributions:
Early Life and Transportation: Mary Reibey was born Mary Haydock in Bury, Lancashire, England, in 1777. At the age of 13, she was orphaned and subsequently sent to Australia as a convict. She was convicted for stealing a horse and was transported to Australia on the ship "Royal Admiral" in 1792.
Colour lithograph of the First Fleet entering Port Jackson on January 26 1788, drawn in 1888. Creator: E. Le Bihan
Building a Business Empire: After serving her sentence, Reibey settled in Sydney, Australia. She established herself as a successful businesswoman and played a prominent role in the emerging trading industry. She traded goods, particularly with ships, and became involved in various business ventures, including shipping and mercantile activities.
Banking and Philanthropy: Reibey's success extended to the banking sector. In 1817, she founded the first bank in Australia, known as the Bank of New South Wales. The bank eventually became Westpac, one of Australia's largest banking institutions. Reibey's entrepreneurial spirit and financial acumen helped shape the early Australian economy.
Houses of Isaac Nichols, Mary Reibey and Sarah Wills, Sydney 1829
Social Standing and Legacy: Despite her convict past, Reibey rose to prominence in Australian society. She became a respected member of the community and was known for her charitable contributions. Reibey's dedication to philanthropy led her to support various causes, including education, hospitals, and religious institutions.
Recognition: Mary Reibey's contributions and achievements have been recognized and honored in Australia. She is depicted on the Australian $20 banknote, an acknowledgment of her significant role in the country's history and her contributions to business and society.
From the collections of the State Library of New South Wales [a128655 / MIN 76]
Mary Reibey's life is a testament to resilience, determination, and the capacity for personal growth. From her humble beginnings as a convict, she transformed herself into a successful businesswoman, leaving a lasting impact on Australian society and the financial sector. Her story represents the opportunities for redemption and success that were available to individuals in the early days of Australia's colonial history.