Fuqing, Yan, 1882-1970

Yan Fuqing (simplified Chinese: 颜福庆; traditional Chinese: 顏福慶; pinyin: Yán Fúqìng; 1882–1970), also known as Fu Ching (F.C.) Yen, was a Chinese medical practitioner, public health pioneer, civil servant, and educator. Born in Shanghai in 1882, Yen came from a renowned family with a history of serving the Chinese government and society. Notable relatives include cousin Chinese Premier Yan Huiqing, in-law Liu Hongsheng, and the Soong sisters. A graduate of St. John's College and Yale Medical School, Yen later returned to China and pioneered several public health initiatives, including the establishment of a local Red Cross, overseeing the Hunan-Yale Agreement, the foundation of the National Medical Association of China as well as the National Shanghai Medical College, now the Medical College at Fudan University. Yen actively treated patients during the Japanese occupation of China in World War II, and subsequently during the Cultural Revolution. Due to his historical, social status, practice of Christianity, and Western ties, he was barred from joining the Communist Party of China (CPC). By 1966, his home, property, and social standing had been destroyed for political reasons. Yen died under house arrest in 1970. After his death, he has been celebrated as a patriot and hero by the Chinese government.