Clara Barton
Clara Barton (1821-1912) was an American nurse, educator, and humanitarian who is best known for founding the American Red Cross. Born in Massachusetts, Barton began her career as a schoolteacher before becoming one of the first female clerks in the United States Patent Office.
About
Born in Massachusetts, Barton began her career as a schoolteacher before becoming one of the first female clerks in the United States Patent Office. Throughout her life, she displayed a strong commitment to helping others, particularly those affected by natural disasters and armed conflicts. During the American Civil War, Barton provided aid to soldiers on the frontlines and organized assistance for their families. After the war, she traveled to Europe to learn about the International Red Cross and upon her return, she established the American Red Cross in 1881. Under Barton's leadership, the organization was instrumental in providing relief to victims of various disasters, including hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods. Barton continued to advocate for the expansion of the Red Cross and its international treaty obligations until her retirement in 1904. Clara Barton's tireless dedication to humanitarian efforts earned her the moniker "Angel of the Battlefield" and left a lasting impact on the field of nursing and disaster relief.