Origins & Early Life

Nella Larsen (born Nellie Walker) was an American novelist, nurse, and librarian. She published two novels—Quicksand (1928) and Passing (1929)—and a few short stories. A revival of interest in her writing has occurred since the late 20th century. Her works have been the subjects of numerous academic studies involving issues of racial and sexual identity, and she has been lauded as "not only the premier novelist of the Harlem Renaissance, but also an important figure in American modernism." Nella Larsen was born Nellie Walker, in a poor district of south Chicago known as the Levee, on April 13, 1891 (though Larsen would frequently claim to have been born in 1893).

Pivotal Works & Achievements

Her mother was Pederline Marie Hansen, an ethnically Danish immigrant, born in 1868 in Bernstorfsminde, a small hamlet in the parish of Brahetrolleborg. Migrating to the USA around 1886 and going by the name Mary, Larsen's mother worked as a seamstress and domestic worker in Chicago. Larsen's father was Peter Walker, a "colored" immigrant from the Danish West Indies (now the U.S. Virgin Islands). Walker and Hansen filed an application for a marriage license in 1891, indicating a clear intent...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Antonio Gramsci — Contemporary (Born in 1891) (1891): Italian Marxist philosopher known for his theory of cultural hegemony.
• Arthur Rimbaud — Contemporary (Died in 1891) (1891): Transgressive French poet whose work profoundly influenced modern literature and surrealism.
• B. R. Ambedkar — Contemporary (Born in 1891) (1891): Pioneering jurist, economist, and social reformer who shaped modern India.
• Abedi Pele — Contemporary (Born in 1964) (1964): Legendary Ghanaian footballer, celebrated for his attacking prowess and leadership.
• Adam Yauch — Contemporary (Born in 1964) (1964): Founding member of Beastie Boys; influential rapper, filmmaker, and Tibetan activist.
• Ann Powers — Contemporary (Born in 1964) (1964): American writer and acclaimed popular music critic.
• Al Green — Shared historical date (04-13 · Born) (1946): Iconic American soul singer, songwriter, and pastor celebrated for his timeless vocal artistry.
• Al-Karaji — Shared historical date (04-13 · Born) (953): Pioneering 10th-century Persian mathematician and engineer who advanced algebra.
• Bill Withers — Shared historical date (03-30 · Died) (2020): Iconic American soul and R&B singer-songwriter known for heartfelt anthems.
• Francisco Goya — Shared historical date (03-30 · Born) (1746): Pioneering Spanish master bridging the Old and Modern eras of art.
• 1891 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1891
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• 1964 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1964
• March 30 (03-30) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on March 30