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Also known as "Song of Myself", Walt Whitman created this book as a collection of poetry he's composed throughout his lifetime until death.  First published in 1855 but edited decades later, Whitman aimed to capture America's image at the time through literature.

Whitman's work proved to be a great influence the ideas and works of other authors, including Ralph Waldo Emerson. Depicting America's democratic spirit through multiple perspectives, his legacy made "Leaves of Grass" an inescapable part of American poetry.

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Thoreau was a writer and philosopher who advocated for individuals to find their individuality through self realization.  He also urged everyone to defy societal standards.  He was jailed for refusing to pay a tax and urged others to not just follow unjust laws and rules.

Thoreau is significant because his ideals inspired many to participate in protest movements, including political and environmental movements, and to take charge against the unjust society they belong in.

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Emerson was a famous orator, essayist, poet, and philosopher who challenged traditional thoughts. He was a Transcendentalist, who expressed his beliefs through literature and speech. He established and explained Transcendentalism through his work.

Emerson was a prominent figure in the cultural reform movement of the 19th century for his strong belief in Transcendentalism, which was gaining popularity at that time. He led the Transcendentalism movement and established its foundation through his work.

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All people have and can obtain knowledge that is more than just what you see, hear, touch, taste, or feel. Transcendentalism is not a religious belief but a way of life. This belief is significant because they believed all people (including women, slaves, Natives) have the potential to be independent and self-reliant. Thus, they influenced thoughts on women's rights, abolition movement, education, while criticizing organized politics and religion.

Image: Frederic Henry Hedge, founder of the Transcendentalist Club