In this study we propose a reflection on nursing as an object of history. Our proposal is based on studies which have dealt with the history of nursing in Brazil and with the new perspectives of history studies. Our reflection is guided by an analysis of the history of nursing in Brazil and the social circumstances which determined the development of this profession in this context. This research adopted methodological proposals which are usually used in historical studies. The data collection was done through oral history and the analysis of documentary sources. The review of the social phenomenon, through the data collected, showed the importance of studies of historic nature and how much these can help on the understanding of the nursing professional identity as well as on the strengthening of this category. We hope that this project motivates the production of other works on this subject and calls the attention for the importance of preserving our historical memory.
History; Nursing; nursing history