Julia Lathrop

Julia Lathrop was a pioneering social reformer and advocate for child and family welfare in the early 20th century. She served as the first chief of the U.S. Children's Bureau, established in 1912, where she worked to improve conditions for vulnerable children and mothers. Lathrop focused on research, policy development, and public education to support health, safety, and well-being. She played a key role in shaping social services and influenced federal efforts to protect children and families, leaving a lasting impact on social welfare practices in the United States.