The red cross was founded on May 11th 1881 in Washington D.C. by Clara Barton. She got the idea after seeing the red cross inspired in Switzerland. While working in Europe following the civil war and decided to start a Red Cross right here in America. After her trip she campaigned for ratifications of the Geneva Convention who protected war injured soldiers that was ratified in 1882. The first chapter was established in  Dansville, New York. on  August 22, 1881. She started this organization but not without help from a friend Adolphus Solomons. Clara Barton was born on December 25, 1821 in Oxford, Massachusetts. She founded two other organizations National First Aid and American Association. The red cross initial focus is to be humanitarians and help others when in need. The red cross started during the war helping in need soldiers. Barton led Red Cross for 23 years.