The International Red Cross was founded on this day in 1863. In honor of this important event in modern medicine, we present works that cover the full history of medical knowledge.

Notes on Nursing: First published in 1860, this short work was developed by nursing pioneer Florence Nightingale for use at her training school in England, but it is meant for anyone entrusted with the well-being of another and offers commonsense suggestions for all caregivers charged with looking after the sick and injured. While some of the information is dated, there remains a wealth of timeless advice, as well as an intimate peek into a moment in medical history.

How to Live: Rules for Healthful Living Based on Modern Science: Irving Fisher’s interest in public health was the result of a bout with tuberculosis, after which he wrote this work. Here is info on the air, food, poisons, activities, and general hygiene, followed by sections dealing with being overweight or underweight, alcohol, posture, and tobacco — and even how to avoid colds. Irving Fisher was a top American economist in the early 20th century who earned the first Ph.D. in economics awarded by Yale University, where he also taught political economy. He was an accomplished mathematician and an engaging and talented writer on even the most technical of subjects whose investigations ranged beyond economics to encompass astronomy, health and hygiene, mechanics, philosophy, poetry, science, and myriad public policy issues. Dr. Eugene Lyman Fisk was the chairman of the Life Extension Institute, under whose auspices this book was published.

Medical Astrology: The Egyptians and Greeks of old purported to understand the secrets of medical diagnosis and treatment via the stars, the author reminds us, but much knowledge has been lost to time. Reconstructing this ancient lore and presenting it for modern use, this 19th-century work explains which sun signs rules which part of the human body, how the planets affect health and temperament, how the stars align to produce illness, and more. Dating from before the discovery of Pluto, this historical oddity will intrigue astrology buffs and medical students and practitioners.