Origins & Early Life

Rollo Reece May (April 21, 1909 – October 22, 1994) was an American existential psychologist and author of the influential book Love and Will (1969). He is often associated with humanistic psychology and existentialist philosophy, and alongside Viktor Frankl, was a major proponent of existential psychotherapy. The philosopher and theologian Paul Tillich was a close friend who had a significant influence on his work. May's other works include The Meaning of Anxiety (1950, revised 1977) and The Courage to Create (1975), named after Tillich's The Courage to Be.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

Reese May, otherwise known as 'Rollo' May, was born in Ada, Ohio, on April 21, 1909 to Matie Boughton and Earl Tittle May, a Men's Christian Associations Field Secretary, as the first son and the second eldest of six. His namesake 'Rollo', or, as his Mother called him, 'Little Rollo', was the title character from a series of children's' books. written by Jacob Abbott in the 19th century. Rollo was reported to have an intense dislike for this nickname; however, he made his peace with the moniker after learning about Rollo the Conqueror, a tenth century Norman. Some may describe Rollo's childhood as difficult due...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

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

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Albert R. Broccoli — Contemporary (Born in 1909) (1909): Pioneering American film producer, best known for developing the James Bond franchise.
• Barry Goldwater — Contemporary (Born in 1909) (1909): Conservative Senator and Presidential Nominee who championed modern American conservatism.
• Benny Goodman — Contemporary (Born in 1909) (1909): Pioneering jazz clarinetist, bandleader, and the celebrated 'King of Swing'.
• Ahmed Ali (writer) — Contemporary (Died in 1994) (1994): Pioneering Urdu writer, poet, and diplomat from British India to Pakistan.
• Alexia Putellas — Contemporary (Born in 1994) (1994): One of the greatest female footballers, known for her midfield prowess and success with Barcelona and Spain.
• Aliya Mustafina — Contemporary (Born in 1994) (1994): Esteemed Russian artistic gymnast, celebrated for multiple world and Olympic titles.
• Andie MacDowell — Shared historical date (04-21 · Born) (1958): Acclaimed American actress and model known for romantic and dramatic roles.
• Anselm of Canterbury — Shared historical date (04-21 · Died) (1109): Benedictine philosopher and theologian, pivotal figure in medieval Church history.
• 21 Savage — Shared historical date (10-22 · Born) (1992): Atlanta-based rapper known for his distinctive style and career evolution.
• Albert Szent-Györgyi — Shared historical date (10-22 · Died) (1986): Pioneering Hungarian biochemist, Nobel laureate for Vitamin C and muscle research.
• 1909 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1909
• April 21 (04-21) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on April 21
• 1994 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1994
• October 22 (10-22) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on October 22