Sister Blandina Segale (1850–1941) was an Italian-born American nun renowned for her courageous and compassionate work in the American Wild West. Born as Maria Rosa Segale on January 23, 1850, in Cicagna, Italy, she immigrated with her family to the United States in 1854, settling in Cincinnati, Ohio. At the age of 16, she joined the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati, taking the religious name Blandina. In 1872, she was sent to Trinidad, Colorado, where she established schools and provided essential services to the local communities. Her fearless nature led her to confront notorious figures, including the outlaw Billy the Kid, and to mediate conflicts, earning her a legendary status in the region.

Sister Blandina's mission extended beyond education; she was deeply involved in healthcare and social justice. In New Mexico, she founded hospitals and advocated for the rights of Native Americans and Mexican immigrants, addressing issues of poverty and injustice. Her dedication to marginalized communities made her a beloved figure, and her life's adventures were later chronicled in her correspondence and inspired television portrayals, highlighting her extraordinary contributions to the American frontier.