John langdon haydon down biography books

British physician who described Down syndrome (1828–1896)

"John Down" redirects here.

Doctor with down syndrome tv show

For the Victoria Cross recipient, see John Thornton Down.

John Langdon Haydon Down (18 November 1828 – 7 October 1896) was a British physician best known for his description of the genetic condition now known as Down's or Down syndrome, which he originally classified in 1862.

He is also noted for his work in social medicine and as a pioneer in the care of mentally disabled patients.^[1]

Early life

Down was born in Torpoint, Cornwall, the youngest of seven children of the merchant Thomas Joseph Down.^[1] His father was originally from Derry in Ireland, and his mother, Hannah Haydon, from North Devon.^[2] His father was descended from an Irish family, his great-great grandfather having been the Protestant Bishop of Derry and Raphoe.^[3] John Down went to local schools including the Devonport Classical and Mathematical School.

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