Edith AbbottDr. Edith Abbott (1876-1957) was born in Grand Island, Nebraska. Trained as an economist (University of Nebraska, University of Chicago and London School of Economics), Abbott was a prominent author, social worker and educator. Abbott became known asthe "passionate statistician", a testament to her distinguished scholarly work and conscientious commitment to the improvement of social conditions. In her writing, Abbott stressed the essential need of a public welfare administration, the need for a more humane social welfare system, the responsibility of the state in relation to social problems, and the social aspects of legislation. Having made several seminal contributions to economic history and social work, Abbott's ideas and influence extended to the formulation of social policy, reflected in a string of legislative initiatives introduced throughout the 1930s. However, Abbott is perhaps best known for her contribution to the establishment and recognition of social work as a profession. At the time of Edith Abbott's death, Wayne McMillen of Social Service Review wrote, "History will include her name among the handful of leaders who have made enduring contributions to the field of education. Social work has now taken its place as an established profession. She more than any other one person gave direction to the education required for that profession. Posterity will not forget achievements such as these." Read More Read Less