Why Is Clara Barton Important To The American Red Cross

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An organization that helps so many, and saves so many lives, but yet not many of us know how it originated and the amount of effort put into creating it. Who was the founder? When was the organization founded ? What help does this organization actually offer the ones in need ? There are many people who put an effort in building this organization and keeping it active, but The American Red Cross would not be what it is today if it was not for the efforts of Clara Barton. Clara Barton is said to be one of the most honored women in American History. She was one of the first women to ever gain employment in the federal government. Clara Barton also began her teaching profession at a time when the only other teachers were men. In 1861, Barton …show more content…

Therefore, Clara Barton offered assistance in treating soldiers and troops. Ways she assisted was that she treated soldiers who were wounded as a result of the war, some soldiers were hungry and some didn't have bedding or clothing. The only clothing they had were the ones that they had on their backs. She helped get rid of these problems in various ways. One of them being by gathering clothing from multiple donators or her family members. Another way she helped get rid of these problems was by collecting any canned goods or foods available. She also played the role of a therapist, by offering personal support to the men who needed the extra boost to keep their spirits up. Eventually, Barton was able to persuade the leaders of the army and the government to allow herself to bring her voluntary services and medical supplies to battle scenes and field …show more content…

As a result of war, the organization experienced a major growth. The number of locations went from just 107 in 1914 to 3,864 in 1918. Also , the membership grew from only 17,000 members to over 20 million adult and 11 million Ju nior Red Cross members. The public was a huge help, contributing to about $400 million in funds and material to support Red Cross programs. Also including those for American and civilian refugees and allied forces. The Red Cross staffed hospitals and ambulance companies and they also managed to recruit 20,000 registered nurses to serve in the military. Additional Red Cross nurses were also recruited to help treat and cure the worldwide influenza epidemic of

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