Elizabeth Blackwell

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Elizabeth Blackwell[edit | edit source]

Introduction[edit | edit source]

Elizabeth Blackwell (February 3, 1821 – May 31, 1910) was a pioneering figure in medicine, becoming the first woman to receive a medical degree in the United States. Her achievements opened doors for women in the medical field, challenging societal norms and setting a precedent for future generations. Blackwell was also a strong advocate for women's rights and contributed significantly to the development of medical education for women.

Portrait of Elizabeth Blackwell.

Early Life[edit | edit source]

Elizabeth Blackwell was born in Bristol, England, to Samuel and Hannah Blackwell. The Blackwell family was quite progressive; they valued education and were active in social reform. In 1832, the family emigrated to the United States, settling in New York City before moving to Cincinnati, Ohio. Despite facing financial difficulties after the death of her father, Blackwell was determined to pursue a career in medicine, motivated by a dying friend who believed her ordeal would have been better had she had a female physician.

Medical Career[edit | edit source]

After being rejected by multiple medical schools, Blackwell was finally accepted by Geneva Medical College in New York State, where she faced considerable opposition and discrimination. Despite these challenges, she graduated first in her class in 1849, thus becoming the first woman to earn a medical degree in the United States.

Following her graduation, Blackwell traveled to Europe to further her education. She studied at La Maternité in Paris and St Bartholomew's Hospital in London, despite facing ongoing discrimination. Upon returning to the United States, she found it difficult to practice medicine due to societal prejudices against female physicians.

Facsimile of Elizabeth Blackwell's medical degree.

Contributions to Medicine[edit | edit source]

In 1857, alongside her sister Dr. Emily Blackwell and Dr. Marie Zakrzewska, Blackwell founded the New York Infirmary for Indigent Women and Children, the first hospital staffed by women and serving the needs of the poor. This institution was pivotal in providing medical care to the underserved and in offering women opportunities for clinical training.

Blackwell also played a crucial role in the establishment of the Women's Medical College of the New York Infirmary in 1868, which focused on providing women with comprehensive medical education. Her work greatly contributed to the acceptance and integration of women in the medical profession.

Later Life and Legacy[edit | edit source]

In her later years, Blackwell returned to England, where she helped establish the London School of Medicine for Women. She remained active in social and medical reforms, advocating for preventive medicine and public health. Elizabeth Blackwell died in 1910, leaving behind a legacy of breaking barriers for women in medicine and championing the cause of women's health care.

Her legacy continues to inspire generations of women in medicine, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, equality, and compassion in the medical profession.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  • "Pioneer Work in Opening the Medical Profession to Women: Autobiographical Sketches by Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell". New York: Longmans, Green, and Co., 1895.
  • Wilson, Dorothy Clarke. "Lone Woman: The Story of Elizabeth Blackwell, the First Woman Doctor". Little, Brown and Company, 1970.

External Links[edit | edit source]

Elizabeth Blackwell Resources

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