Henry David Thoreau

American essayist and philosopher

Henry David Thoreau - American essayist and philosopher
Born

July 12th, 1817
208 years ago

Died

May 6th, 1862
163 years ago — 44 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

An essayist, poet, and philosopher, this individual is recognized for his reflections on nature and society. The work 'Walden' documents a two-year experiment in simple living in natural surroundings, emphasizing self-sufficiency and introspection. 'Civil Disobedience' highlights the individual's moral duty to resist unjust laws. These writings contributed to the development of environmentalism and social reform movements.

Authored 'Walden'

Wrote 'Civil Disobedience'

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