Once a shy, timid child, Clara Barton (1821-1912) grew up to show great courage in dangerous and challenging circumstances, all because she wanted to help others. During the Civil War, Clara delivered supplies right to the battlefields, where she cared for hundreds, if not thousands, of wounded Union and Confederate soldiers. After the war, Clara saw another need - to help victims of natural disasters like hurricanes, floods, and fires. So she founded the American Red Cross and persuaded the U.S. government to support its important mission. This caring and bold woman worked tirelessly to rescue people in need when no one else would. Her legacy continues today in the lives of the many Red Cross workers who put the needs of others before their own - just as Clara did so courageously.