Florence Nightingale's Milestones

Florence Nightingale was a British nurse and social reformer, founder of modern nursing, who revolutionized medical care and sanitation during the Crimean War and beyond.
1820

Birth

Florence Nightingale was born in Florence, Italy, to William and Frances Nightingale.

Family May 12, 1820
1837

Early education and travels

Privately educated in mathematics, philosophy, and languages; traveled across Europe with her family.

Education January 1, 1837 - January 1, 1844
1844

Decision to become a nurse

Resolved to pursue nursing, defying family expectations and social norms.

Achievement January 1, 1844
1850

Training in Germany and France

Received formal nursing training at Kaiserswerth, Germany, and further experience in Paris.

Education July 1, 1850 - July 1, 1851
1853

Early nursing work in London

Superintendent at the Institute for the Care of Sick Gentlewomen in London.

Career April 1, 1853 - October 1, 1854
1854

Crimean War service

Led nursing efforts during the Crimean War, revolutionizing hospital care and drastically reducing mortality rates.

Achievement October 21, 1854 - July 1, 1856
1856

Royal recognition

Honored by Queen Victoria for her service in the Crimean War.

Achievement November 29, 1856
1860

Published 'Notes on Nursing'

Published 'Notes on Nursing: What It Is and What It Is Not,' a foundational text for nursing.

Achievement January 1, 1860

Founded nursing school

Founded the Nightingale Training School for Nurses at St Thomas' Hospital in London, pioneering modern nursing education.

Achievement July 9, 1860
1861

Public health reform

Advised on hospital design, sanitation, and public health in Britain and India.

Achievement January 1, 1861 - December 31, 1880
1890

Declining health

Lived in seclusion due to chronic illness, but continued to advise on healthcare.

Other January 1, 1890 - August 13, 1910
1907

Order of Merit

Became the first woman awarded the Order of Merit for her contributions to medicine and society.

Achievement November 28, 1907
1910

Death

Florence Nightingale died in London, leaving a lasting legacy in healthcare and nursing.

Other August 13, 1910