Historical Analysis: Effects of Civil War, WWI & WWII on Nursing

This essay examines the profound and lasting effects of the Civil War, World War I, and World War II on the nursing profession. It begins by highlighting how the Civil War served as a catalyst, establishing nursing as a legitimate profession for women and challenging Victorian-era beliefs. The essay then explores the increased involvement of women in military nursing during both World Wars, emphasizing the development of specialized training in areas such as field sanitation and psychiatry. It also discusses the elevated responsibilities of nurses, the evolution of nursing ethics, and the critical role nurses played in influencing patient outcomes. The analysis underscores how wartime experiences reshaped perceptions of women's capabilities, leading to greater recognition and appreciation for their contributions to healthcare, ultimately shaping the modern nursing profession.