Rudolf Virchow was a prominent German physician, pathologist, and anthropologist, born on October 13, 1821. He is often referred to as the "father of modern pathology" for his pioneering work in understanding diseases at the cellular level. Virchow introduced the concept of cellular pathology, emphasizing that diseases arise from changes in cells rather than from humoral imbalances. In addition to his medical contributions, Virchow was also a social reformer and politician. He believed that social conditions significantly impacted health and advocated for public health improvements. His work laid the foundation for modern public health initiatives and the study of epidemiology.