Born in Oxford, Mass., in 1821, Clarissa Harlowe Barton is remembered as one of the most important female pioneers and humanitarians in American history. Better known as Clara, Barton’s most notable – and perhaps most important – achievement was establishing the American Red Cross.
Prior to her work with the Red Cross, Barton earned a reputation as a gifted nurse and school teacher. In fact, she was only 11 when she began nursing her first patient, her brother David. She later opened one of the first free public schools in New Jersey.
Throughout the Civil War, Barton worked tirelessly to provide aid to wounded soldiers on the front, earning the nickname “the Angel of the Battlefield.” She was appointed superintendent of Union nurses in 1864.
After the war, Barton worked closely with the International Committee of the Red Cross overseas. Upon her return home, she successfully campaigned for the ratification of the first Geneva Convention. Led by Barton, the American Red Cross was established in 1881.
Barton would guide the American Red Cross as president for more than 20 years. Under her leadership, the Red Cross provided aid to thousands of victims of floods, fires and hurricanes. She also wrote two books: “The Red Cross – In Peace and War” and “Story of the Red Cross – Glimpses of Field Work.”
Thanks to Barton’s unwavering compassion and desire to help others in need, the American Red Cross continues to thrive as the country’s leading emergency response organization. Barton passed away in 1912, though her legacy will live forever.
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