Historical Figures · 21st Century
Edith Cavell’s Last Words
“I have lived my truth.”— Edith Cavell, Unknown
Who Was Edith Cavell?
Edith Louisa Cavell was a British nurse. She is celebrated for treating wounded soldiers from both sides without discrimination during the First World War and for helping some 200 Allied soldiers escape from German-occupied Belgium. Cavell was arrested, court-martialled under German military law, and sentenced to death by firing squad. Despite international pressure for mercy, the German government refused to commute her sentence and she was shot.
The Final Moments
The circumstances surrounding Edith Cavell's final moments are not fully documented in available historical records.
Are These Words Verified?
British nurse Edith Cavell was executed by German firing squad in 1915. Her chaplain recorded her actual final words as 'Patriotism is not enough. I must have no hatred or bitterness towards anyone,' not 'I have lived my truth.'
Sources
- firsthand Reverend Stirling Gahan testimony
- newspaper The Times (London) October 1915
- archive British chaplain records
Legacy
Edith Cavell's story continues to be discussed by historians and enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Edith Cavell’s last words?
“I have lived my truth.”
How did Edith Cavell die?
Edith Cavell died on Unknown. Cause of death: Natural Causes.
Were Edith Cavell’s last words documented?
British nurse Edith Cavell was executed by German firing squad in 1915. Her chaplain recorded her actual final words as 'Patriotism is not enough. I must have no hatred or bitterness towards anyone,' not 'I have lived my truth.'
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