The medical services of the armies could not cope with so many casualties. Henri Dunant stayed with the wounded for several days and provided them with medical aid. That’s how he got the idea of creating a system of voluntary medical societies that would help the wounded during the war. After returning to Geneva, Dunant wrote the book “A Memory of Solferino”, published it at his own expense and sent several copies to leading politicians and military leaders in Europe.

In December 1863, Henri Dunant together with like-minded people founded the International Committee of the Red Cross — the world’s largest humanitarian organization. In 1864, the representatives of 16 countries took part in the International Congress, which resulted in signing the Geneva Convention for the Amelioration of the Condition of the Wounded and Sick in Armies in the Field. The document enshrined the principle of humane treatment of all the wounded, a guarantee of immunity for those who provide aid to the injured and the introduction of a special identification mark for these people. It was a red cross on a white background — the Swiss flag with changed colors. The emblem of the Red Cross acquired a special status — it ensured the immunity of doctors and volunteers, as well as inviolability of ambulances, infirmaries and hospitals.