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Clara Barton
Nurse & Relief Worker
"I may be compelled to face danger, but never fear it, and while our soldiers can stand and fight, I can stand and feed and nurse them."
Biography
Known as the 'Angel of the Battlefield,' Barton organized nursing care and supply distribution on the front lines, often under fire. She worked outside official channels to get supplies where they were needed fastest. After the war she established the American Red Cross, translating battlefield compassion into a permanent institution.
Did you know?
Founded the American Red Cross at age 59 and served as its president until age 77. At Antietam, a bullet passed through the sleeve of her dress and killed the soldier she was treating. She never received a salary for her war work.
Key Battles
Battle of Antietam
Union victorySeptember 17, 1862 · 22,726 total casualties
The Union victory gave Lincoln the political cover to issue the Emancipation Proclamation, transforming the war into a crusade against slavery and preventing British and French recognition of the Confederacy.
Battle of Fredericksburg
Confederacy victoryDecember 13, 1862 · 18,030 total casualties
A devastating Union defeat that shattered army morale and led to calls for Lincoln's resignation. Burnside was replaced by Hooker.
Life Journey
Timeline
December 25, 1821
🌅 Birth
Born in North Oxford, Massachusetts
1852–1854
📍 Posting
Opens free public school in Bordentown, New Jersey
1854–1861
📍 Posting
First female clerk at U.S. Patent Office, Washington D.C.
September 17, 1862
⚔️ Battle
Nurses wounded at Antietam — bullet through her sleeve
December 13, 1862
⚔️ Battle
Nurses at Fredericksburg under fire
May 21, 1881
🕊️ Postwar
Founds American Red Cross, Washington D.C.
April 12, 1912
✝️ Death
Dies in Glen Echo, Maryland