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Born
Maria Montessori born on August 31 in Chiaravalle, Ancona province, Italy. -
Begin her medical journey
Against opposition from her father, she pursues her wish to become a doctor. -
Become the first woman doctor in Italy
Becomes one of the first women to obtain a Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Rome. -
First child
Maria Montessori gave birth to her only child, Mario, on March 31, 1898 -
Work at the psychiatric clinic in Rome
She was appointed assistant doctor at the Psychiatric Clinic at the University of Rome. Part of her duty was to visit asylums for the insane in Rome in order to select suitable subjects for the clinic. Her generous heart was touched by these unfortunate children, and she determined to actually help them. -
Begin a second degree in education
She begins a second degree in education, experimental psychology, and anthropology at the University of Rome. -
Open her first school
Her first Children’s House, Casa dei Bambini, is opened in the San Lorenzo district of Rome. -
Publish her first book
She published her first book "The Montessori Method" and this book is translated into over 20 languages. -
Gain international renown
By 1911, the Montessori method has spread to schools in Paris, London, Stockholm and Zurich. -
Meet with Benito Mussolini
It results in official recognition and widespread establishment of Montessori schools by the Italian government. -
Nazis close all Montessori schools
The Nazis systematically destroy the Montessori movement in Germany, closing all Montessori schools. -
Leave Italy under pressure
Maria Montessori was forced to leave Italy under pressure from Mussolini. Her peace activism ran contrary to the fascist ideals. -
Teach in India
Maria Montessori's methods were popular in India. In 1939, the Theosophical Society invited her to teach a series of lectures in Madras. -
Return to Europe
The war over, Maria and Mario Montessori return to Europe. -
Nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize
First nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize -
Died
Maria Montessori dies May 6 in Noordwijk aan Zee, Netherlands; she is buried at the local Catholic cemetery.