Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Since its foundation, the Faculty of Medical Sciences (FCM, UNC, Argentina) and its members in the design and implementation of eugenic public policies aimed at preventing depopulation and reducing infant mortality. This study describes these policies since the foundation of this institution until the outbreak of the university reform process. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A bibliographical analysis of online databases and library catalogs was performed in order to identify texts referring to child care and public health policies promoted by the FCM from 1877 to 1918. Results: 11 bibliographical references were obtained: three books, two scientific journal articles and six Thesis for the title of Doctor in Medicine and Surgery from the FCM. DISCUSIÓN: A great interest in the characterization of infant mortality in Córdoba and the promotion of exclusive breastfeeding is evident in the texts analyzed. This is associated with the creation and administration of childcare health institutions, including the Children's Protective Clinic. CONCLUSIONS: The FCM, associated to political groups in Córdoba, actively participated in the dissemination of childcare concepts (whose recipients were mainly women-mothers of low socioeconomic strata) and in the implementation of actions aimed at the population growth and the inculcation of moral values accepted by its academics.