Mary Baker Eddy

Born in Bow, New Hampshire, in 1821, Mary Baker Eddy became one of the most influential American religious figures of the 19th century. After years of illness, personal loss, and religious searching, she developed the ideas that would become Christian Science, a movement formally founded in 1879.

Her best-known book, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, first published in 1875, set out her understanding of God, prayer, healing, and the Bible. She later founded The Church of Christ, Scientist, as well as The Christian Science Journal and The Christian Science Monitor, extending her influence beyond theology into publishing and public life.

Eddy remains a notable and debated figure in American history. Admirers see her as a bold spiritual leader and religious innovator, while critics have long questioned her teachings and claims. She died in 1910, but her writings and the church she established continue to be read and discussed.