Jane Addams was born on September 6, 1860, in Freeport Illinois. Her father, who was a Quaker, a senator and a mill owner, was her greatest influence. In 1879 she attended Rockford Female seminary, at the time a pioneering college for women, where she excelled. The schools strong religious content did not stick with Addams, however she did explore spirituality and it could be assumed that the strong theme of morals in her work was influenced by this place. She graduated in 1881 as valedictorian of her class.
<Tab/>The years between her graduation and 1888 were spent uneas…
