Samuel Sarphati was a notable 19th-century Dutch physician and philanthropist, born on February 9, 1813, in Amsterdam. He is best known for his contributions to public health and urban development in the city. Sarphati advocated for better living conditions and healthcare for the poor, emphasizing the importance of hygiene and sanitation.
In 1865, he founded the Sarphatihuis, a hospital aimed at providing medical care to the underprivileged. His efforts significantly improved healthcare access in Amsterdam, and he is remembered as a pioneer in social medicine. Sarphati passed away on March 5, 1866, leaving a lasting legacy in public health.