Born: 1821 (Bristol, England)
Biography:
Elizabeth Blackwell was a British and American physician who made a lasting impact on the fields of medicine and women’s rights. She was born on February 3, 1821, in Bristol, England, to Samuel Blackwell, a sugar refiner, and Hannah (Lane) Blackwell. Elizabeth had two older siblings, Anna and Marian, and six younger siblings, including Samuel, Henry, and Emily, who also made significant contributions to society.
During the 1800s, it was believed that teaching was a suitable occupation for women. Elizabeth became a schoolteacher to support her family, but she soon realized that it wasn’t fulfilling for her. Her interest in medicine was sparked when a friend fell ill and mentioned that she might have suffered less if a female doctor had cared for her. This comment planted the seed that would shape Elizabeth’s future.
Driven by a desire to challenge the prevailing norms and prejudices against women in medicine, Elizabeth began applying to medical schools. However, she faced immense opposition and was rejected from every institution except Geneva Medical College in New York. Even her acceptance at Geneva was initially a joke by male students, but they later acknowledged her abilities and voted in favor of her acceptance.
In 1847, Elizabeth Blackwell became the first woman to attend medical school in the United States. Her journey was filled with obstacles and resistance, but she remained steadfast in her pursuit of knowledge and excellence. In 1849, shortly after graduating, she made history once again by publishing her inaugural thesis on typhoid fever in the Buffalo Medical Journal and Monthly Review. It was the first medical article published by a female student from the United States and showcased her strong sense of empathy, sensitivity to human suffering, and advocacy for social justice.
Elizabeth’s determination and passion for medicine did not end with her medical degree. In 1857, she co-founded the New York Infirmary for Women and Children with her sister Emily Blackwell. The infirmary provided much-needed medical care and improved healthcare facilities for women and children. Elizabeth also began giving lectures to female audiences, emphasizing the importance of educating girls.
During the American Civil War, Elizabeth played a significant role in organizing nurses and providing medical assistance. The New York Infirmary also developed a medical school program for women, offering them extensive clinical education and hands-on experience with patients.
Elizabeth Blackwell’s influence extended beyond the United States. In 1874, she returned to England and helped establish the London School of Medicine for Women. By doing so, she opened doors for British women aspiring to enter the medical profession.
Throughout her lifetime, Elizabeth faced numerous challenges and prejudice, but her perseverance and determination paved the way for future generations of women in medicine. She remains a pioneer in promoting education for women in medicine and an inspiration to those who strive to break barriers.
In recognition of her remarkable contributions, the Elizabeth Blackwell Medal continues to be awarded annually to women who have made significant advancements in promoting women in medicine.
Awards:
– Elizabeth Blackwell Medal