Why Is Clara Barton Important In American History

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In American history, there were many influential people who made a significant impact on society. One person in particular demonstrated values that are very important to me. For this reason, I have chosen Clara Barton as the person that I would most wish to dine with and discuss relevant issues. Clara Barton had a very eventful life as a traveling nurse during the Civil War and as the founder of the American Red Cross. She overcame incredible obstacles in order to fulfill an intrinsic desire to serve. Ms. Barton’s service to her community and to her country exemplifies the principles of service, community fellowship, and patriotism. Specific issues that I would like to discuss with Ms. Barton would include teaching the value of these principles to the youth of today. These values would help teens overcome insecurities to increase volunteerism, and inspire teens to become leaders despite our country’s divisive atmosphere. …show more content…

Barton was timid and unsure of herself, but still had a very caring nature. Despite her shyness, Ms. Barton later became a teacher and opened a school in New Jersey. Several years later, she continued her career as a clerk in Washington, DC where she realized her true calling while caring for those injured in the Baltimore riots. She provided clothing, food, and supplies for the wounded soldiers and kept their spirits high by reading books to them, writing letters to their families for them, talking to them, and supporting them. What I would really hope to learn from Ms. Barton would be how she was able to take care of the soldiers, both physically and emotionally, despite the overwhelming destitution during that time. It is clear she possessed an amazing inner strength and will to overcome extreme

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