Donald Woods Winnicott was born on April 7, 1896 in Plymouth, Devon, England. He was the youngest of three children, having two older sisters. His father Frederick was a merchant who devoted much time to his business dealings, his religion (Methodist), local politics, and later to community involvements, eventually earning a Knighthood in 1924. His father spent little time at home. Donald’s mother Elizabeth suffered from depression, often putting Donald in the position of trying to cheer her up. Overall, Donald lived an enjoyable and consistent childhood. The well-to-do Winnicott household included an aunt, a nanny, a governess, a cook, and several household helpers. As a result, women surrounded young Donald throughout his childhood. This constant exposure to women likely stimulated his interest in the inner life of females. In addition, having to cope with the needs of his depressed mother, who died in 1925 of heart problems, may have led him to devote his life to the care of others, particularly women who were suffering. Winnicott grew to be only 5ft. 7in. tall and spoke with a high-pitched voice, leading some who listened to his radio broadcasts to think that a woman was speaking (Jacobs, 1995).