Katharine McCormick

Katharine McCormick (1875–1967) was a pioneering philanthropist and women's rights advocate who played a crucial role in the development and funding of the first birth control pill. A trained biologist, she made her mark in an era when few women were allowed in scientific fields, earning her degree from MIT in the late 1890s. After marrying into the wealthy McCormick family, she used her substantial fortune to support causes aimed at empowering women, including reproductive rights. McCormick is remembered for her significant contributions to the sexual revolution and for her philanthropic efforts, which included funding housing for women at MIT and supporting various charitable organizations.