Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803 – 1882) was an American essayist, philosopher, and poet who led the Transcendentalist movement. His works, including Self-Reliance and Nature, emphasized individuality, intuition, and the spiritual connection between humans and nature.
Born in Boston, Emerson initially became a Unitarian minister but left the clergy to pursue writing and lecturing. His 1837 speech The American Scholar was hailed as the intellectual declaration of American independence. He mentored Henry David Thoreau and influenced later writers like Walt Whitman and Friedrich Nietzsche.
Emerson’s philosophy championed nonconformity, personal growth, and self-improvement. He was also an abolitionist, advocating for the end of slavery. His ideas continue to inspire literature, philosophy, and discussions on personal freedom.