Born: 1872 (Lynchburg, Virginia)
Died: 1968
Biography:
Rosalie Slaughter Morton (born Blanche Rosalie Slaughter; October 16, 1872 – May 5, 1968) was an American physician, surgeon, and author. In addition to running her own medical practices, she became the first woman appointed as Attending Surgeon at the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University in 1916 and became the first chairperson of the American Women’s Hospitals Service the following year. Morton served as a medic during the First World War and was the first chair of the Public Health Education Committee. She was also one of the first women to join the faculty and later become a professor at the Polyclinic Hospital of New York.
Born in Lynchburg, Virginia, Morton studied at the Woman’s Medical College of Pennsylvania despite her family’s expectation that she would aim to find a husband who could provide for her. She went on to conduct further study and research across Europe and Asia before returning to the United States to open her own medical practices. Throughout her career, Morton focused on improving healthcare and advocating for women’s role in medicine.
Rosalie Morton faced various challenges throughout her life. Her father strongly opposed her desire to become a doctor, but she persisted and enrolled at the Woman’s Medical College of Pennsylvania in 1893, using money she had saved from her childhood allowance. Despite societal expectations, she dedicated herself to her studies and graduated in 1897 with honors.
After completing her medical education, Morton embarked on a journey to further expand her knowledge. She traveled extensively throughout Europe and Asia, studying under renowned physicians and surgeons. These experiences broadened her perspective and enhanced her surgical skills, making her a pioneer in her field.
Upon her return to the United States, Morton opened her own medical practices, breaking barriers for women in medicine. She faced skepticism and resistance from male colleagues, but her exceptional skills and dedication soon earned her respect and recognition. In 1916, she made history by becoming the first woman appointed as Attending Surgeon at the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University.
One of Morton’s most significant contributions was her work during the First World War. She served as a medic, providing medical care to wounded soldiers. Her expertise and leadership led to her appointment as the first chairperson of the American Women’s Hospitals Service, where she played a crucial role in establishing and managing hospitals for war victims.
Morton was also an advocate for public health education. She chaired the Public Health Education Committee, utilizing her platform to educate the public about preventive measures and the importance of maintaining good health. Her efforts were instrumental in improving public health practices and raising awareness about healthcare issues.
In 1937, Morton published her autobiography, A Woman Surgeon: The Life and Work of Rosalie Slaughter Morton, offering an inspiring account of her journey in medicine. The book received positive reviews and provided invaluable insights into the challenges faced by women in the medical profession during that time. She later released another book titled A Doctor’s Holiday in Iran in 1940, further showcasing her passion for medicine and her experiences abroad.
Rosalie Slaughter Morton received numerous awards and recognitions for her contributions to medicine and public health. Notably, she was awarded the Conspicuous Service Cross for her exceptional service during the First World War. Her dedication and perseverance paved the way for future generations of women in medicine.
Rosalie Morton’s impact on society cannot be overstated. Through her pioneering work as a surgeon, her advocacy for women’s role in medicine, and her contributions to public health education, she broke down barriers and inspired countless individuals. Her legacy continues to shape the field of medicine, and her story serves as a testament to the power of determination and commitment.
Awards:
– Conspicuous Service Cross