Clara Barton

Clara Barton was an American nurse and humanitarian. She was born in North Oxford, Massachusetts, in 1821. She helped wounded soldiers during the Civil War. She founded the American Red Cross in 1881.

Early Life

Barton was shy as a child but became a teacher at age 15. She started one of the first free public schools in New Jersey. When the Civil War began, she went to the front lines to help wounded soldiers. She became known as the Angel of the Battlefield.

The most famous photograph of Red Cross founder Clara Barton.
The most famous photograph of Red Cross founder Clara Barton. (Mathew Benjamin Brady / Wikimedia Commons)

Big Achievements

Barton brought supplies and medical care directly to soldiers on the battlefield. After the war, she helped identify missing soldiers. She traveled to Europe and learned about the International Red Cross. She founded the American Red Cross in 1881 and led it for 23 years.

Fun Facts

  • Barton was called the Angel of the Battlefield during the Civil War.
  • She started teaching at just 15 years old.
  • She led the American Red Cross until she was 83.

Did You Know?

The American Red Cross that Barton founded still helps millions of people today. It provides disaster relief, blood donations, and emergency services. Her vision of helping people in need continues more than 100 years later.