
Discover Dr. Mary Edwards Walker - first female U.S. Army surgeon and only woman awarded the Medal of Honor, which was revoked then reinstated 60 years later. Her groundbreaking fight for women's rights remains so relevant that she earned a place in the Women's Hall of Fame.
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In the tumultuous era of 19th-century America, a figure emerged whose life would be a testament to courage, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of justice. Mary Edwards Walker, born on November 26, 1832, in Oswego, New York, was destined to leave an indelible mark on history. From her early years, Mary was different; she defied the conventional norms of her time with a fierce determination that would characterize her entire life. Growing up in a family that valued education and independence, Mary was encouraged to pursue her dreams, no matter how unconventional they seemed. Her parents, Alvah and Vesta Walker, instilled in her a strong sense of self-worth and the importance of standing up for what she believed in. This foundation would serve her well as she navigated the challenges of her future. Mary's formative years were marked by a keen interest in education and a desire to make a difference. She attended the Falley Seminary in Fulton, New York, and later the Syracuse Medical College, where she earned her medical degree in 1855. This achievement was remarkable for a woman of her time, as the medical field was predominantly male-dominated.