He was born in
St Quivox in
Ayrshire on 2 March 1853 the son of James Oliver and his wife, Margaret McMurtrie. He was educated at
Ayr Academy then studied medicine at
Glasgow University graduating MB ChM in 1874. He undertook some practical experience at
Glasgow Royal Infirmary then went to
Paris to undertake further postgraduate studies. Returning to Britain he worked in Preston Hospital 1875 to 1879. In 1880 he began lecturing at the Medical School of
Durham University. In 1889 he was created Professor of Medicine. In 1892 he became a member of the White Lead Commission and was instrumental in banning females from being employed in its production. In the
First World War he was instrumental in the creation of the
Tyneside Scottish battalion, gathering
Bedlington miners to join the war effort and was given the rank of Honorary Colonel. He retired in 1927. He died aged 89 in
Newcastle-upon-Tyne on 15 May 1942. ==Publications==