May 21: American Red Cross Founded

2014-05-21On 21 May 1881, Clara Barton founded the American Red Cross in Washington, D.C. Barton first heard of the international Red Cross during a visit to Europe after the Civil War, which inspired her to campaign for an American Red Cross program.

The establishment of the American Red Cross came at the perfect time for Michigan residents. Just a few months after the founding of the American Red Cross, a devastating forest fire decimated the “Thumb” area of Michigan. Over one million acres burned, and several hundred deaths were reported. This was the first time the American Red Cross responded to a disaster with relief efforts, which set a precedent for years to come.

The American Red Cross did not experience exponential growth until the start of the Civil War. The 17,000 members in 1914 grew to over 20 million adults and 11 million Junior Red Cross members in 1918 (“A Brief History of the American Red Cross”). After combating the war and the international influenza epidemic in 1918, American Red Cross members focused on servicing veterans and enhancing national programs concerning safety and education. It was not until World War II had started that the American Red Cross established a national blood program to aid soldiers. Over 13 million pints of blood were donated during the war, and a similar blood collection program for civilians was created after the war, which is still a vital part of the organization today (“The National Blood Program of the American Red Cross”).

Clara Barton and the American Red Cross provided exceptional relief services to millions of Americans and still have a lasting impact today. Since its establishment, the Red Cross has saved countless American lives and provided much needed relief to millions of people afflicted by disasters and wars.

–Evan Joseph
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2014-05-21bMeet the Author

I am a 19-year-old student who is enrolled part-time at Schoolcraft and I work part-time. I have not decided on my major yet. I grew up in Canton, Michigan, and graduated at Catholic Central High School in 2012.

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