As a historian with a focus on women's achievements and medical history, I'm often asked about the first woman to qualify as a doctor. This is a question that takes us back to the 19th century when the medical field was predominantly male, and the idea of a woman becoming a physician was quite revolutionary. The journey towards women in medicine is a fascinating one, filled with stories of perseverance, courage, and defiance against societal norms. While the reference to Elizabeth Blackwell, the first American woman physician, is significant, it's important to clarify that she was not the first woman to qualify as a doctor globally. The title of the first woman to qualify as a doctor is often attributed to Elizabeth Garrett Anderson, a pioneering figure in British history. Elizabeth Garrett Anderson was born in 1836 in England. Her story is one of breaking barriers and setting a precedent for women in the medical profession. Despite numerous obstacles, including being denied entry to medical schools and facing societal disapproval, she was determined to pursue her dream of becoming a doctor. Garrett Anderson's journey began with her education. She was a bright student and showed an early interest in medicine. However, the path was not easy. Medical schools at the time were not open to women, and the idea of a woman doctor was met with skepticism and resistance. Her determination led her to take unconventional routes to gain medical knowledge. She started by studying privately under the tutelage of James Paget, a renowned surgeon, and then went on to study at the Society of Apothecaries, where she passed the examination to become a Licentiate in Medicine, the first woman to do so. Her success did not stop there. In 1865, she opened a small private practice and continued her education, eventually becoming the first woman to be admitted to the Medical Register in Britain. This was a monumental achievement, as it meant that she was officially recognized as a qualified physician in the country. Garrett Anderson's impact on the medical field was not limited to her own qualifications. She was a trailblazer for other women who wished to pursue a career in medicine. In 1873, she co-founded the New Hospital for Women in London, which later became known as the Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Hospital. This hospital was staffed by women and provided medical services to women, a concept that was groundbreaking at the time. Her legacy extended further with the establishment of the London School of Medicine for Women in 1874, where she served as the dean. This institution trained numerous women doctors and helped to pave the way for women's education in medicine. Elizabeth Garrett Anderson's story is a testament to the power of determination and the importance of breaking down barriers. She faced significant opposition and challenges but remained steadfast in her pursuit of a medical career. Her achievements not only opened doors for herself but also for generations of women who followed in her footsteps. In conclusion, while Elizabeth Blackwell was indeed a pioneering figure as the first American woman physician, it was Elizabeth Garrett Anderson who holds the distinction of being the first woman to qualify as a doctor in Britain, and her impact on the medical profession was profound and lasting. read more >>

However meetings with the feminist Emily Davies and Elizabeth Blackwell, the first American woman physician, convinced Elizabeth Garrett that she should become a doctor. This was unheard of in 19th century Britain and her attempts to study at a number of medical schools were denied.read more >>