Subjected to her parents’ poverty, robbed of a carefree childhood, and forced to live under the unforgiving eye of a stern aunt, a young Dorothea Dix’s life was indeed lacking in compassion. And yet in adulthood—from schoolteacher to Civil War nurse, to leading reformer of the rights of the mentally disabled—Dorothea worked tirelessly for others.

CK Curriculum Alignment: CKHG Grade 4

Voices in History™ is a Core Knowledge Biography Series that encourages young readers to learn about real superheroes in history. As a result of acts of extraordinary bravery, ingenuity, strength, and determination, these people made a difference and changed the world. Perhaps their remarkable stories will inspire young readers to become the superheroes of the future.