Merck's Breakthrough Hire Tapped Jewish Scientist to Fuel Century-Long Healthcare Boom

In the mid-20th century, the American pharmaceutical industry experienced significant growth, driven by researchers and ambitious drug companies. One key figure in this era was Max Tishler, a Harvard chemist who joined Merck in 1937 after being rejected by DuPont due to antisemitism.

Tishler's career at Merck spanned decades, during which he developed numerous groundbreaking medicines. In 'The Age of Cures,' Barry Werth explores the emergence of the modern U.S. pharmaceutical industry and the complex relationships between companies, universities, governments, and scientists.

The book highlights Tishler's contributions to the field, calling him 'the most prolific drug developer and research chemist in the history of medicine.' His work, along with that of other researchers, led to unprecedented health, prosperity, and scientific advancements during peacetime.