In a recent paper in the journal Basic and Applied Ecology, Roisin Stanbrook-Buyer, an ecologist at Bethune-Cookman University in Florida, attempted to calculate an exact figure.
During this circuit of speaking engagements, Bethune elaborated eloquently on the desperate needs of these people. His ability to communicate effectively made this tour a success.
Later, in the United States, Bethune came in contact with poverty and deprivation , but his skills as a doctor also attracted wealthy patients who were willing to pay for services usually denied to the poor.
From 1911to 1912, Bethune worked as a lumberjack and teacher in a remote area of Ontario. He taught at Frontier College , a unique school that provided basic education to adult workers at the lumber camps.
As units of white women were being deployed overseas, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and Mary McLeod Bethune rallied to have black women included in the war effort overseas.
These efforts were reported to have reduced deaths from war by up to 75%. Thousands of people owed their lives to Dr. Bethune. His bedside manner became legendary, and it was another measure of this man.
The decade of the 1930 s was the era of Fascist aggression throughout the world. Bethune s knowledge of the long history of western aggression and exploitation in China made him conclude that his services were needed there.