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Esther Forbes


Full Name and Common Aliases


Esther Forbes was born on June 25, 1891, in Boston, Massachusetts, USA. She is commonly known as Esther Forbes.

Birth and Death Dates


Birth: June 25, 1891, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
Death: October 28, 1967

Nationality and Profession(s)


Nationality: American
Profession: Novelist, Biographer, Historian

Early Life and Background


Esther Forbes grew up in a family of modest means in Boston's Beacon Hill neighborhood. Her father, William A. Forbes, was a well-known lawyer, and her mother, Esther (née Richardson) Forbes, came from a literary family. From an early age, Esther demonstrated a keen interest in history and writing. She attended the Boston Latin School before moving to Europe with her family for several years.

Major Accomplishments


Forbes' most notable work is her Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, "Paul Revere and the World He Lived In" (1942). This book not only brought historical accuracy but also humanized Paul Revere, transforming him from a mythic figure into a relatable character. Forbes' ability to weave historical facts with engaging storytelling made this biography an instant classic.

Notable Works or Actions


In addition to "Paul Revere and the World He Lived In," Esther Forbes wrote several other notable works, including:

"The General's Lady" (1924)
"National Parks Portfolio" (1935-1936) - a collection of short stories
* "Women in the American Revolution" (1953) - a historical essay

Forbes' commitment to accuracy and historical preservation earned her recognition as one of America's leading biographers.

Impact and Legacy


Esther Forbes' work has had a lasting impact on American literature and history. Her meticulous research and engaging writing style have inspired generations of readers, making complex historical events accessible to the general public. The Pulitzer Prize she received for "Paul Revere and the World He Lived In" in 1943 solidified her reputation as a master biographer.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


Esther Forbes is widely quoted and remembered for her ability to bring historical figures to life through engaging storytelling. Her commitment to accuracy, coupled with her passion for history, has made her one of the most respected biographers in American literature.

Quotes by Esther Forbes

THE fourteenth of April, 1775.
"
THE fourteenth of April, 1775.
A man can stand up.
"
A man can stand up.
And many of the townsfolk of Boston seem more concerned with the profit of their business than the great cause that is swirling around them.
"
And many of the townsfolk of Boston seem more concerned with the profit of their business than the great cause that is swirling around them.
It was sink or swim for him – and happens he’s swimming.
"
It was sink or swim for him – and happens he’s swimming.
Most American heroes of the Revolutionary period are by now two men, the actual man and the romantic image. Some are even three men – the actual man, the image, and the debunked remains.
"
Most American heroes of the Revolutionary period are by now two men, the actual man and the romantic image. Some are even three men – the actual man, the image, and the debunked remains.
After that Johnny began to watch himself. For the first time he learned to think before he spoke.
"
After that Johnny began to watch himself. For the first time he learned to think before he spoke.
Nobody can make a monkey out of anyone who isn’t a monkey to start with.
"
Nobody can make a monkey out of anyone who isn’t a monkey to start with.
If you can’t do, you’d best shut up about it.
"
If you can’t do, you’d best shut up about it.
How old are you Johnny" she asked. Sixteen." And what's that-a boy or a man?" He laughed. "A boy in time of peace and a man in time of war.
"
How old are you Johnny" she asked. Sixteen." And what's that-a boy or a man?" He laughed. "A boy in time of peace and a man in time of war.
We give all we have, lives, property, safety, skill...we fight, we die, for a simple thing. Only that a man can stand up.
"
We give all we have, lives, property, safety, skill...we fight, we die, for a simple thing. Only that a man can stand up.
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