The discovery of Trypanosoma cruzi and Chagas disease (1908-1909): tropical medicine in Brazil.
This article analyzes the discovery of Chagas disease and the parasite that causes it (Trypanosoma cruzi) by Carlos Chagas in 1908/1909, with a special focus on the scientific and social context in which this occurred. Its inclusion in the international debate on European tropical medicine--especially with researchers from the German school of protozoology--and its connection with discussions on the modernization of the recently established Brazilian Republic are also examined. The discovery of Chagas disease became a decisive aspect in the scientific project that Oswaldo Cruz sought to establish at the institute that bears his name. It was extolled as a symbol of Brazil's scientific ability t produce knowledge in line with the international scientific agenda, while simultaneously being attuned to the specific problems of the country.
Kropf
Simone Petraglia
SP
Casa de Oswaldo Cruz/Fundação Oswaldo Cruz Avenida Brasil, 4036/400 21040-361, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil. simonek@coc.fiocruz.br
Sá
Magali Romero
MR
D000047:Academies and Institutes / Q000266:history; D000818:Animals; D001938:Brazil; D014355:Chagas Disease / Q000266:history* / Q000469:parasitology; D005858:Germany; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans; D007391:International Cooperation / Q000266:history*; D014330:Tropical Medicine / Q000266:history*; D014349:Trypanosoma cruzi