Clarissa Harlowe Barton, or Clara, was born on Dec.25, 1821, in Oxford Massachusetts. She is one of the most honored women in American history. She began teaching school at a time when most teachers were men and she was one of the first women to gain employment in the federal government. Barton risked her life to bring supplies and support to the men trying to keep their spirits up. She read to them, wrote letter for them, listened to their personal problems and prayed with them. However, she knew that where she was needed was not behind the lines but on the battlefield itself.