No Man's Land

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In September 1914, shortly after the First World War began, two British doctors, Flora Murray and Louisa Garrett Anderson, traveled to Paris to establish a makeshift hospital in Claridge's hotel. They treated numerous casualties from the battlefields, breaking the traditional barriers that had restricted female doctors to women and children. Their innovative practices, including the use of antiseptics and x-ray technology to locate bullets, garnered praise even from skeptical army officials. This pivotal moment allowed women to operate on men for the first time, as Suffragettes volunteered to demonstrate the capabilities of female doctors despite medical schools denying them entry. Flora and Louisa were soon invited to set up two more hospitals, including a major facility in London known as the "Suffragettes' Hospital," which became famous for its advanced treatments and vibrant atmosphere, featuring concerts and social events alongside surgeries. Their partnership extended beyond medicine, as they navigated both professional challenges and personal dynamics. However, after the war, women were once again limited to treating only women and children, a restriction that persisted until World War II. Drawing from various historical sources, Moore highlights the resilience and achievements of Flora and Louisa, reminding readers of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the significant contributions women can make against all