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Transcendentalism was an American intellectual and philosophical movement of the 19th century. To generalize, they rejected societal institutions like organized religion that might corrupt an individual, believed in the innate goodness of people, and felt a spiritual connection with nature. A few notable transcendentalist authors include Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thorough, and Margaret Fuller.
That being said, the members of this movement often disagreed because of their emphasis on being authentic. A popular view of Transcendentalism is that it was primarily a spiritual movement. However, Margaret Fuller, for example, focused more on the interconnectedness of diverse human experiences, rather than a spiritual connection to nature. Another example of a Transcendentalist with radical ideas that were rejected by other of the same beliefs, was George Ripley. Ripley began a utopian society called Brook Farm, something that could be considered an institution associated with organized religion. Though short-lived, Brook Farm exemplifies the transcendentalists' practical attempts to implement their philosophical principles. Communal living was one way the transcendentalist desire for self-reliance could be actualized.

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The Transcendentalist attitude is largely a northern one. In this map, Brook Farm’s close proximity to Boston is evident. There are a few reasons why the geographic location is important to this movement. First, these writers were usually progressive in terms of the social justice or civil rights they backed. They were abolitionists and feminists, and often spoke directly to their northern audience. Additionally, much of the prose honed in on a deep connection with nature. This could be seen as a reaction to the growing industrialization and infrastructure of the north. This infrastructure, which notably included railways and the Erie canal, urbanized the north.

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Margaret Fuller was an American journalist, critic, and women's rights advocate. Editor of the transcendentalist journal "The Dial," Fuller contributed thoughtful essays that explored topics ranging from philosophy to women's rights. Her groundbreaking work "Woman in the Nineteenth Century" is considered a pioneering feminist text, challenging traditional gender roles and advocating for women's intellectual and social equality.

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This is infographic summarizes the ideas that bound the Transcendentalists despite their disagreements. The “Idealism” portion encompasses the sort of things they might have differing opinions on such as religion, or important social issues.

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Newspaper Clippings - biography of Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Newspaper Clippings - biography of Ralph Waldo Emerson

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This piece outlines the major moments of Ralph Waldo Emerson’s life. Emerson is possibly the most famous of the transcendentalists, second only to Thoreau. One observation to note is that the moment Emerson leaves the church, he begins hid career as a transcendentalist, publishing essays and giving lectures. It appears this is consistent with most other writers of the movement, and while some may not have left the church entirely, a change at least in sect or denomination is often self-reported.

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This Emerson quote is one of my personal favorites, and it perfectly encapsulates the transcendental quest for serenity. Emerson suggests that success is not material, but a sense of contentment, a view he shared with other writers as they reacted to the growing materialism of the 19th century.