The American Red Cross is an organization dedicated to helping those in need and is one of the most impactful humanitarian organizations in the United States today. As a country, we depend on American Red Cross volunteers, funds and blood donations. 

Did you know the American Red Cross was founded by a nurse? 

Clara Barton founded the American Red Cross in 1881, and it can be argued that her nursing career played a huge part in helping her develop the dedication to care and emotional support she would rely upon as she championed her cause. 

A brief history of Clara Barton and her nursing career 

Clara, like most people at the time, was never formally trained as a nurse. She learned how to care for others in a nursing capacity when her brother was injured in a fall. At just 11 years old, she became his primary caregiver — administering prescribed medications and leeches, changing bandages, and cleaning wounds — and served in this capacity for the next two years of her life. 

Most of Clara’s work during the Civil War involved obtaining and providing desperately needed medical supplies and food on the battlefield, but she also drew upon her earlier knowledge to provide nursing care. Clara assisted surgeons and nursed many wounded soldiers, becoming known as the “Angel of the Battlefield” for the care and attention she provided those in need. 

Founding the Red Cross

After the war, Clara spent time in Europe. She first encountered the Red Cross in Switzerland and began studying writings of Henry Durant, founder of the global Red Cross network. While in Europe, Clara saw a need to assist victims of the Franco-Prussian War and began serving alongside volunteers of the International Red Cross. 

Upon returning to the United States, Clara continued to correspond with officials at the Red Cross in Switzerland. She tirelessly worked to raise support, and founded the American Red Cross on May 21, 1881 with a small group of acquaintances. Clara proceeded to lead the organization for the next 23 years.

Impact of the American Red Cross

Disaster Relief

Throughout its history, the American Red Cross has responded to over 3 million disasters in the United States — providing food, water, shelter and other essentials as well as post-crisis support. 

Blood Bank

The American Red Cross is the largest national blood bank and has been at the forefront of improving the safety of our national blood supply. 

Training

The American Red Cross has offered lifesaving training in first aid, water safety, and other courses for more than 100 years, and more than 4.5 million people now receive Red Cross training annually. 

Service to the Armed Forces

The American Red Cross has deployed alongside the U.S. Armed Forces in every conflict since the Spanish-American War working to deliver emergency messages, lead mental wellness courses, distribute comfort kits and quality-of-life items, and provide deployment services for military members, veterans and their families. 

International Efforts

The American Red Cross is part of a network of 192 Red Cross organizations throughout the world. On average the American Red Cross helps 200 million people with disaster management and prevention efforts outside the U.S. each year. 

Clara Barton’s life and dedication to a cause prove that one person can make a difference. Her legacy of commitment and caring continues to impact our lives to this day. YOU can make a difference in the lives of others too.