Charles S. Finch III

Charles S. Finch III is an American physician, author, and cultural historian renowned for his extensive research and writings on African history, traditional medicine, and African science and technology. He has authored several influential books and has lectured internationally on the contributions of ancient African civilizations.^[1][2]

Finch graduated from Yale University in 1971 with a Bachelor of Arts degree and earned his medical degree from Jefferson Medical College in 1976. He completed his family medicine residency at the University of California, Irvine Medical Center in 1979.^[3]

In 1982, Finch joined the Department of Family Medicine at the Morehouse School of Medicine. By 1989, he transitioned to the Office of International Health, eventually becoming the Director of International Health. In this role, he conducted significant research on traditional healing practices in Africa, particularly among the Serer people of Senegal.^[4] Over his career, Finch has conducted independent studies in African antiquities, comparative religion, anthropology, and ancient science. He has published numerous articles and is the author of several books that explore the historical and scientific contributions of African civilizations.^[5]

Finch has extensively explored the scientific and technological achievements of ancient African civilizations. His book, The Star of Deep Beginnings: The Genesis of African Science and Technology, examines the advanced knowledge systems of African societies, particularly the Dogon people's understanding of Sirius B, which he suggests indicates a sophisticated grasp of astronomy.^[6]

In The African Background to Medical Science: Essays on African History, Science & Civilizations, Finch traces the history of medical science to the Nile Valley, dating back over 6,000 years. He highlights the role of Imhotep (circa 3,700 B.C.) as a foundational figure in medicine, preceding Hippocrates. His research emphasizes early African advancements in cardiovascular physiology, anatomy, pharmacology, surgery, and gynecology.^[7]

As the principal investigator of a survey among the Serer people of Senegal from 1991 to 1992, Finch studied traditional healers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Between 1992 and 1995, he led groups to traditional healing ceremonies in Senegal, fostering cross-cultural understanding of indigenous medical practices. In 1996, he co-organized Coumba Lamba USA, an eight-day traditional healing ceremony in South Carolina, bringing together healers from Senegal, Nigeria, and Native American tribes.

Finch has authored several books focusing on African history, civilization, and medical science. His notable works include:

• Echoes of the Old Darkland: Themes from the African Eden
• The African Background to Medical Science: Essays on African History, Science & Civilizations
• The Star of Deep Beginnings: The Genesis of African Science & Technology

Through his research, publications, and lectures, Finch has significantly contributed to the awareness and understanding of Africa's historical and scientific legacy. His work has been influential in Afrocentric scholarship and has promoted greater recognition of the African roots of many scientific and medical advancements.

• African traditional medicine
• Afrocentrism
• History of science and technology in Africa
• Ancient Egyptian medicine

• Charles S Finch website