Born Laura Jane Addams on September 6 in Cedarville, Illinois, to a prosperous family. Her father, John Huy Addams, was a successful miller and state senator who greatly influenced her values and ambitions.

Her mother, Sarah Weber Addams, died when Jane was only two years old, leaving a profound impact on her early childhood.

Attended Rockford Female Seminary (now Rockford University) in Illinois, where she excelled academically and developed her interest in social reform. She graduated as valedictorian and was one of the first women to receive a Bachelor of Arts degree from the institution.

Briefly attended Women's Medical College of Philadelphia but withdrew due to health problems and the death of her beloved father. This period marked the beginning of years of searching for her life's purpose.

During her second trip to Europe, Addams visited Toynbee Hall in London, a pioneering settlement house. This experience crystallized her vision to create a similar institution in America that would bridge the gap between social classes.

On September 18, along with her college friend Ellen Gates Starr, Addams founded Hull House in a dilapidated mansion in Chicago's impoverished immigrant neighborhood. This became America's most famous settlement house.

Became the first woman president of the National Conference of Social Work (now the National Conference on Social Welfare).

Seconded Theodore Roosevelt's nomination for president at the Progressive Party Convention, becoming the first woman to do so at a major party convention.

Received the Nobel Peace Prize, donating the prize money to the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom.

Died on May 21 in Chicago at age 74. Her funeral procession drew thousands of mourners from all walks of life, testament to her profound impact on American society.