Final answer:
Clara Barton was the most famous nurse from the Union and is also recognized for helping to organize the American Red Cross. Her efforts during the Civil War and her work in disaster relief set the foundation for the organization's enduring role in humanitarian aid.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most famous nurse from the Union who also helped organize the American Red Cross was Clara Barton. She was a pioneering nurse during the Civil War and founded the American Red Cross in 1881, after the war. Her dedication to providing care during wartime and her role in establishing an organization that continues to offer vital humanitarian aid solidified her legacy in American history.
During the Civil War, she provided valuable assistance on the front lines, caring for soldiers and eventually leading to the creation of the reknowned aid organization. Post-war, the activities of Clara Barton and the American Red Cross expanded significantly. They assisted not only in war efforts but also in any form of disaster relief, like supporting victims of the influenza pandemic as seen with volunteer nurses in Oakland, California.
The efforts made by women like Barton and other volunteer nurses were crucial during times of crisis, helping countless individuals with their medical skills and compassion. Their work during World War I, such as driving ambulances and assisting with medical supplies, was integral to managing the healthcare needs of soldiers and civilians alike. Grace MacPherson Livingston, for example, served as a Red Cross ambulance driver, showcasing the dedication and bravery of these women in harrowing conditions.