As we celebrate Black History Month, we would like to recognize the contributions of African-American nurses on our country’s history.
Working Nurse spotlights several African-American nurses who were pioneers in the field. Below are a few of the notable nursing “firsts”:
James Derham – Credited as being the first black man to practice medicine in the United States, James was born a slave around 1762. The doctor who purchased James encouraged the young man to study medicine, and James began to work as a nurse. With this new skill set, James ultimately made enough money to purchase his own freedom.
Mary Elizabeth Mahoney – The first black woman to become a professionally-trained nurse, Mary Elizabeth went on to co-found the National Association of Colored Graduate Nurses in 1908.
Jesse Sleet Scales – Jesse became the nation’s first black nurse to work in public health. She became so influential in her role that other community health agencies began to hire black nurses.
To read more about the history and influences of African-American nurses, click here.
