Pioneering American nurse Clara Barton founded the American Red Cross in 1881 and became the first president of the organization. She led the organization for the next twenty-three years.
The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization that provides assistance in the United States. It is the designated affiliate of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.
Headquartered in Washington D.C., the American Red Cross is governed by volunteers. In addition to domestic disaster relief, the American Red Cross also offers services in five other areas as well:
• Community services to help the needy
• Communications services and comfort for military members and their families
• The collection, processing, and distribution of blood and blood products
• Educational programs on preparedness, health, and safety
• International relief and development programs
Like many women during the American Civil War, Barton (1821-1912) rolled up her sleeves, bandaging, and nursing wounded soldiers.
Following the war in 1869, she traveled to Europe, and for several years Barton volunteered her time working with the International Red Cross during the Franco-Prussian War.
Upon returning to the United States, she was determined to bring the Red Cross to America.
HOW TO OBSERVE
Learn more about the American Red Cross, its founder, and its volunteers. Discover local Red Cross history and its impact in your community. Following are a few sites to help you get started:
• A Story of the Red Cross by Clara Barton (1904)
• Clara Barton by Elizabeth Brown Pryor (1987)
• Blood, Sweat, and Tears: An Oral History of the American Red Cross by Michele Turk (2006)
Use #AmericanRedCrossFoundersDay to post on social media.
HISTORY
National Day Calendar® continues researching the origins of this Red Cross holiday.
#AmericanRedCrossFoundersDay
@redcross
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