On the centenary of Florence Nightingales death, questions have been raised as to her real achievements. Although a legend in her own time, Nightingale has recently been attacked by academics and in two BBC films. This book takes on the Nightingale debunkers to give an informed and clear-eyed look at Nightingale as public health advocate, pioneering researcher, and fiercely dedicated social reformer. The book lets the legendary founder of nursing and heroine of the Crimean War speak for herself. The book draws on the vast sources gathered for the "Collected Works of Florence Nightingale", including much overlooked or unknown material. Chapters relate Nightingales background, her faith and political creed, her work during Crimean War and its aftermath, on later wars, and on reform in nursing, health care, midwifery, workhouses, hospitals, and India. Nightingale was a prodigiously astute researcher, a bold systems thinker, and a witty writer well connected with political and intellectual leaders. Her passionate dedication to her causes shines through her writing, making this book a great read.