Catherine Bauer (1905-64) changed forever the concept of social housing, and inspired a generation of urban activists to integrate public housing into the emerging welfare state of the mid-20th century. This book presents the story of the evolution of housing policy from the 1930s to 1960s. Her life was an exemplar for women who were forced to break down barriers to receive recognition. It offers an account of how she reconciled personal and professional pursuits, while offering a social history of planning during its formative years.