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William Osler, considered one of the preeminent American physicians at the turn of the century, studied in North America and in Europe. His later influence in molding the teaching and the specialty of internal medicine is still felt. One may ask to what extent his ideas were generated or influenced by his extensive German experiences? Most certainly his exposure to pathology in Germany was profound and lasting. While there can be no doubt that Osler was a Germanophile throughout his career, one has to conclude that his academic influences were more English and not exclusively German. He was cosmopolitan and used and promulgated good ideas wherever he found them.