Background

Norman Bethune was born in Gravenhurst, Ontario in 1890. He received his M.D. in 1916, and became a leading thoracic surgeon specializing in the treatment of tuberculosis. Dr. Bethune developed several innovative surgical instruments which are still in use.

Norman Bethune is best known in China for his work as a field surgeon with the Eight Route Army from 1937-1939. During this time he invented mobile blood banks to provide blood transfusions to wounded soldiers in the field. Dr. Bethune died on November 12, 1939 of blood poisoning contracted during an operation on a Chinese soldier. His sacrifice was commemorated by Mao Zedong in his essay "In Memory of Norman Bethune".

In March 1990, Canada and China marked the centenary of Dr. Bethune's birth by the joint issue of commemorative stamps.

Bethune's spirit of service, courage and innovation continues to inspire Canada-China innovative partnerships today.

Top - Back