Book details
Susan La Flesche Picotte: Discovering History's Heroes
Description
Jeter Publishing presents a series that celebrates men and women who altered the course of history but may not be as well-known as their counterparts. In this middle grade biography, learn about Susan LaFlesche Picotte, the first Native American woman to earn a medical degree.Susan LaFlesche Picotte was the first Native American doctor in the United States and served more than 1,300 patients over 450 square miles in the late 1800s. Susan was the daughter of mixed-race (white and Native American) parents, and struggled much of her life with trying to balance the two worlds. As a child, she watched an elderly Omaha Indian woman die on the reservation because no white doctor would come help. When she grew older, Susan attended one of just a handful of medical schools that accepted women, graduating top of her class as the country's first Native American physician. Returning to her native Nebraska, Susan dedicated her life to working with Native American populations, battling epidemics from smallpox to tuberculosis that ravaged reservations during the final decades of the 19th century. Blizzards and frigid temperatures were just part of the job for Susan, who took her horse and buggy for house calls no matter what the weather conditions. Before her death in 1915, she also established public health initiatives and even built a hospital.
Age
7-10
Text complexity
proficient
Length
140 pages
Why to read
- Educational Value: The book provides an insightful look into the life of Susan La Flesche Picotte, the first Native American woman to become a physician in the United States. It offers valuable lessons on perseverance, dedication, and the impact one individual can have on society.
- Cultural Significance: Reading about Susan La Flesche Picotte's achievements and her role as a pioneer in healthcare and advocacy for Native American rights helps readers gain a deeper understanding of Native American history and the challenges faced by indigenous peoples.
- Inspirational Story: Susan's journey from a reservation to becoming a doctor is a powerful testament to overcoming obstacles and breaking barriers. Her story can inspire readers to pursue their own goals and advocate for change in their communities.
- Historical Context: The book places Susan La Flesche Picotte's life within the broader context of American history, including the social and political issues of her time. This perspective allows readers to appreciate the historical significance of her accomplishments and the progress made in the years since.