healthcare

People in the Middle Ages and in the early modern period suffered from various diseases, injuries, pandemics and older age consequences to a considerably greater extent than nowadays. Many publicists were intrigued by physical and mental health problems of well-known historical figures, though frequently these problems were just unfounded and fabricated tales.

Typically, aid for the poor in Hungary was the responsibility of church representatives and social elites. However, Christian teachings only requested support for people in need in the form of alms, not permanent provisions. The level of care for the poor in the country adhered to this understanding until the second half of the 18th century when social support and health care became the agenda of the state. During the Enlightenment era, Hungarian elites started to address these issues under the guidance of the Emperor. The initiative was influenced, but not regulated by Maria Theresa.