Profile of the Day: Hans Christian Andersen

Posted April 2, 2019 by Amanda | No Comment

Hans Christian Andersen

What’s your favorite fairy tale? On this day in 1805, Danish author Hans Christian Andersen was born.

Andersen was born on April 2, 1805 in Odense, Denmark to Hans Andersen, Sr. and Anne Marie Andersdatter. He first developed an interest in literature from his father, who would entertain him with stories from the Arabian Nights. At the age of 14, Andersen left school to pursue a career as an actor in Copenhagen. After being accepted to the Royal Danish Theater, Andersen turned his attention towards writing and later returned to school to complete his education.

Although he wrote plays, travelogues, poems, and novels, Andersen would be best known for his fairy tale stories. Some of his most popular tales include “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” “The Little Mermaid,” and “The Snow Queen.” His work has been translated into over 125 languages and has been adapted several times on the stage and screen.

Today his birthday is celebrated as International Children’s Book Day all around the world!

Explore Hans Christian Andersen’s family tree on Geni and share how you’re connected to the author.