Ralph Waldo Emerson

About

Ralph Waldo Emerson was an influential American philosopher, lecturer, and poet. He is best known for his essays on Transcendentalism, a philosophy in which a person looks for spiritual truth through appreciation of nature and the world around them. Emerson's philosophy was revolutionary for its time, and left a lasting impression on American thought.

Ralph Waldo Emerson Timeline

1803

Ralph Waldo Emerson is Born

On May 25, 1803, Ralph Waldo Emerson was born in Boston, Massachusetts.

1821

Enters Harvard University

Emerson enrolled at Harvard University at the age of 18.

1826

Becomes a Minister

Emerson was ordained a Unitarian minister, following in his father's footsteps.

1832

Leaves Ministry

Emerson left the ministry after the death of his wife and his own crisis of faith.

1836

Publishes "Nature"

Emerson published his first major work, "Nature", a foundational text of Transcendentalism.

1841

Releases "Self-Reliance"

Emerson published "Self-Reliance", one of his best-known essays advocating individualism.

1882

Emerson Passes Away

Ralph Waldo Emerson passed away on April 27, 1882, leaving a significant legacy in American philosophy and literature.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Ralph Waldo Emerson birthday?

Ralph Waldo Emerson was an American philosopher born on May 25, 1803. He was a leading thinker in the Transcendentalist movement of the early nineteenth century and was considered one of the most influential writers of the time. He passed away on April 27, 1882 at the age of 78 and is remembered for his essays and speeches on self-reliance, individuality, and the power of nature.