Jane Addams: An American Social Activist

Cultural feminist, American reformer, peace activist, social worker, Jane Addams dedicated her life to helping to shape better lives for those less fortunate than herself. Though Jane Addams is best remembered as co-founder of Hull House, a settlement house for immigrants, she was also an out-spoken advocate for civil rights, opposition of child labor abuse, women's rights, and the first American woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize.

Addams was born September 6, 1860 in Cedarville, Illinois. She had five brothers and sisters. Jane was two when her mother died, and she gained two additional step-brothers when her father later remarried. By most accounts, Jane and her blended family were close. Her father, a successful miller and local political leader, served sixteen years as a state senator, fought in the Civil War, and shared a mutually respectful friendship with Abraham Lincoln. Jane's devotion, and admiration, for her father motivated courageous contributions to society.

After graduating from Rockford Seminary for Women in 1881, Jane wanted to attend medical school, but her parents strongly disapproved. Her father and stepmother supported her decision to attend college, but felt it was time to focus on becoming a wife and mother. Jane had no interest in the traditional roles of womanhood. She became despondent over the reaction of her parents. Her brothers had careers in medicine and science, and Jane believed she should have the same opportunity. Having a husband and children did not appeal to her.

Jane's parents took her on a twenty-one month vacation throughout Europe in hopes of relieving her depression, and perhaps, persuade Jane to give up ambitions of further education and forming a career. During the trip, Jane's health began to falter. Stress was a likely factor.

Jane suffered from a congenital spinal defect. Along with her parents, she traveled back to Illinois to get medical assistance. Shortly after returning, Jane's father passed away. This propelled Jane into a deeper depression. She felt a sense of guilt. Her father adamantly objected to his daughter having a career. Jane's depression was compounded by the pain she endured after having surgery to remedy her condition. She could barely move for one year. This experience gave her plenty of time to meditate about the direction her life should take.

When Jane recovered, she traveled back to Europe with a companion, Ellen Starr. While in England, they became acquainted with the founders of Toynbee Hall, a settlement house located in the slums of London. Jane and Ellen learned about the workings of Toynbee Hall, and quickly committed to recreating a similar organization in Chicago. Jane had found her calling. She was convinced that she could live a life of purpose as a social worker. Ellen Starr was equally fired-up and ready to reach out to the poor, and fight for social equality.

In 1889 Jane Addams and Ellen Starr opened Hull House.