Clara Barton’s life spanned almost a century. Ninety years to be exact. And what years they were!
During those years, the steamship and train got their start. So did the automobile and airplane. Less important, but just as key for many people, was the construction of the first Ferris wheel. Not to mention the invention of the ice-cream soda. Also during Barton’s life, 23 presidents lived in the White House. Over time, Barton met some of them face to face. But she was not allowed to vote for even one of them! A few of these presidents helped her realize her dreams of helping others. The events of this period helped shape Clara Barton’s life. At the same time, her actions affected the lives of others.