Born in Baltimore to wealthy socialite parents, Marguerite Harrison (1879–1967) was raised to become a socialite herself. Much of her upbringing was spent traveling Europe with her parents, Bernard Baker, a shipping magnate, and Elizabeth Baker. The opportunity to travel extensively abroad had lasting benefits for her future and unexpected career.
She attended St. Timothy’s School in Catonsville, Maryland, and then later, for a short time, Radcliffe College. Her true education, however, came through experience. During her time overseas, she learned to speak French, German, Italian, and Spanish. Through her experiences, she developed a love of history, and, through her prim and proper upbringing, she learned the art of social critique. Armed with her natural beauty and charm, she utilized these lessons, not only for herself, but also for other women of the age and for her country’s national security.
