FAQ About Women in the History of Medicine

The "Edinburgh Seven" were a group of pioneering women who were admitted to the University of Edinburgh's medical school in 1869. They were among the first female students to enroll in a British university with the intention of studying medicine. The members of the Edinburgh Seven were:

• Sophia Jex-Blake (1840–1912) - The leader of the group and a prominent figure in the women's suffrage movement.
• Isabel Thorne (1834–1910) - One of the oldest members of the group and a determined advocate for women's education.
• Edith Pechey (1845–1908) - Known for her tenacity and her involvement in women's rights causes.
• Matilda Chaplin (1846–1883) - Gained medical qualifications but faced significant obstacles in her medical career.
• Helen Evans (1833–1903) - Demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
• Mary Anderson (1837–1910) - The only member of the group to graduate with an M.D. from the University of Edinburgh.
• Emily Bovell (1832–1913) - Known for her academic achievements and later work in women's education.