Florence Nightingale made groundbreaking contributions to the field of nursing practices and healthcare during the 19th century. She is best known for her work during the Crimean War, where she transformed unsanitary conditions in military hospitals, significantly lowering the death rate. Nightingale emphasized the importance of hygiene, proper nutrition, and patient care, establishing foundational principles for modern nursing. Her pioneering efforts led to the establishment of nursing as a respected profession and influenced healthcare standards worldwide.