Dorothea dix accomplishments

Dorothea Dix was an early 19^th century activist who drastically changed the medical field during her lifetime. She championed causes for both the mentally ill and indigenous populations.

By doing this work, she openly challenged 19^th century notions of reform and illness. Additionally, Dix helped recruit nurses for the Union army during the Civil War. As a result, she transformed the field of nursing.

Dix was born in Hampden, Maine in 1802.

Little is known about her childhood. However, historians believe that her parents suffered from alcoholism and her father was abusive.

Dorothea dix hospital

Due to this abuse at a young age she moved to Boston to stay with her grandmother. Dix attended school in Boston and tutored children. She became ill several times and was forced to stop teaching. During one of her bouts of illness her physicians suggested she spend time in Europe.

While visiting overseas, Dix met with groups of reformers interested in changing the way the mentally ill were cared for. Once Di