Dorothea Dix was an American social reformer born on April 4, 1802. She is best known for her work advocating for the rights of the mentally ill. Dix traveled across the United States, documenting the poor conditions in asylums and jails, which led to significant reforms in mental health care. Her efforts resulted in the establishment of several mental hospitals and improved treatment for patients. Dix also played a role in the Civil War, serving as a superintendent of nurses for the Union Army. She dedicated her life to humanitarian causes until her death on July 17, 1887.