Description

Rebecca Lee Crumpler was the first African American woman to earn a medical degree in the United States. Born in 1831 in Delaware, she worked as a nurse for several years before earning her medical degree from the New England Female Medical College in 1864. After graduation, Dr. Crumpler established a successful medical practice and was known for her dedication to caring for poor and underserved communities. Despite facing significant challenges as a female physician and an African American in the 19th century, Dr. Crumpler made important contributions to the field of medicine and remains an inspiring figure in the history of African American women in medicine.