Grace Abbott

1878–1939 (age 61)

Social worker

Biography

Grace Abbott was a pioneering social worker whose advocacy reshaped the landscape of child welfare and immigrant rights. She brought rigorous research and compassionate policy to bear on issues of labor, education, and protection for vulnerable children in the early twentieth century.

Her leadership within the social reform movement helped to inspire legislation and institutions that carried forward her commitment to fairness, giving voice to those who needed support the most.

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