Jane Addams
Jane Addams was a progressive social reformer and activist known for her work in the settlement house movement and her peace activism, which earned her the Nobel Peace Prize in 1931.
Activist
September 6, 1860
Virgo
May 21, 1935
74
Cedarville, Illinois
Jane Addams was a distinguished social worker and activist who, in 1889, co-founded Hull House, a Chicago settlement house that offered services to immigrant communities. A staunch advocate for women’s suffrage and peace, Addams received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1931 for her efforts to promote disarmament and international understanding. She also played a role in establishing the NAACP and the ACLU.
Well-known for her works “Twenty Years at Hull House” and “A New Conscience and an Ancient Evil,” Addams gained recognition for her peace activism and commitment to social justice. As the first American woman to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, she marked a significant milestone for women’s accomplishments. In 1910, Addams became the first woman to receive an honorary degree from Yale University, acknowledging her substantial contributions to social work and peace advocacy.
Some of Jane Addams’ other notable achievements and engagements include her leadership in the settlement house movement, her activism for women’s rights and labor legislation, and her work in educational reform and legal equity for marginalized communities. As a progressive reformer, Addams was a highly respected figure in the struggle for social justice and equality.