1780-1845

English Reformer

Elizabeth Fry was one of the most important prison reformers of the nineteenth century. She also helped to reform the British hospital system and the treatment of the mentally ill.

Fry was born Elizabeth Gurney, the daughter of a wealthy banker and merchant. The Gurneys were members of the Society of Friends, a religious group also known as Quakers. Upholding the belief that all humans are equal in the sight of God, the Quakers were the first religious group to denounce slavery. They were also concerned about the welfare of prisoners. Early Quakers had been imprisoned for their beliefs and experienced the horrible conditions of incarceration firsthand. They also believed that there is something of God in everyone, even in criminals, therefore the goal of prison should be reformation, not simply punishment. Fry's religious background had much to do with her enthusiasm for...