Sisters: Catholic Nuns and the Making of America

Sisters – The Untold Story of Nuns Who Shaped America

For centuries, Catholic nuns have been pioneers of faith, service, and social change in America. Sisters tells the remarkable story of these women who, beginning in the 1800s, moved west with the frontier, building hospitals, schools, and orphanages, often in the most challenging conditions. They cared for victims of the Chicago fire, ministered during the California Gold Rush, and served as battlefield nurses on both sides of the Civil War.

By the 20th century, nuns had established the largest private school and hospital systems in the country, played a vital role in the Civil Rights Movement, and later took on professional roles in law, social work, and healthcare to support aging sisters. As their numbers declined, their legacy endured, shaping education, healthcare, and charitable institutions across the nation.

Sweeping in scope and rich in historical insight, Sisters reveals how these remarkable women became America’s first independent, professional women, leaving a profound impact on society. A must-read for history lovers and those inspired by the quiet yet powerful influence of faith-driven service.