Blackwell’s inspiration began when she searched for and found historical women who participated in the practiced medicine (Kent 8). She researched the ancient women of

After the opening of the New York Infirmary for Women and Children, “Blackwell was interested in a proposed Nightingale Training School for Nurses at St. Thomas’s Hospital that would open in 1860” (Levin 89). Women would be given a larger role in medicine after training for becoming a nurse at their school. The concept of individual evaluations in medical school began there, as well (Crovitz 119). Perhaps the Women’s Medical College was one of the most difficult to attend. It was known for the Examining Board Test. This was used to “avoid any question of special privileges to help the women graduate (Kent 35).” Therefore, no woman was given an unfair chance while attending Blackwell’s school. It required “a longer course of study than other schools, and entrance exams” as well as a chair of hygiene (Decker O’Neil 200). The founding of the chair of hygiene at her college is evidence of Blackwell’s concern with health and sanitation.

Egypt and other places who were involved in medicine, as well as the more modern midwives and doctresses (Kent 9). She found that there were several American women who had accomplished many great things before her. As a result of her extensive research, she wanted to bring back the original concept of women working in medicine. This was the norm before medical occupations were taken over by men (Kent 10). Her belief of women having the same occupational opportunities was the result in finding that men had invaded most of the medical jobs.

In fact, Elizabeth Blackwell not only left a legacy of tangible things such as an autobiography and research notes, but she gave many accomplished women the motivation and inspiration to reach their goals. Her autobiography, Pioneer Work in Opening the Medical Profession to Women described her fight against prejudice (Levin 92), and allowed other women to read it and become inspired by her efforts. A record of hers for others to follow, including books and articles about sex education and morality, was also left for women to read (Kent 36). Foreign women became inspired and gained medical positions after hearing that Blackwell had taken a stand and accomplished many brave goals (Kent 151). A number of women in England became inspired and decided to become doctors (Women’s History). Perhaps the most famous woman who was touched by Blackwell’s achievements is Florence Nightengale. After they became friends, Nightengale and Blackwell worked together to open a medical clinic and school (Levin 89). Elizabeth’s sister, Emily, was inspired to pursue medicine after she saw her sibling reach almost impossible goals (Crovitz 17). Sophia Jex-Blake, who later became another famous woman involved in medicine, attended a class taught by Elizabeth and Emily Blackwell (Lutzker 46). Harriet Hunt found out about Blackwell’s acceptance to medical college and was motivated to do the same (Levin 78). To honor these women who were determined to reach some of the same goals as Blackwell, Blackwell Medals are awarded to “persons who have made the most outstanding contribution to the cause of women in the field of medicine, according to Luis Decker O’Neil (Decker O’Neil 211). Since 1949, the medal has honored twenty-eight women physicians (Decker O’Neil 211). Though women physicians are celebrated today, not everybody appreciates them.

Some topics in this essay:
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