Hans Christian Andersen
Born in Odense, April 2nd, 1805, Danish writer and poet.
When he was 11 years old, his father died. When mother remarried he’d left for Copenhagen – intended to start career as an actor. For two years has frequented a ballet school. Performed also as singer, but lost his voice clarity due to its breaking. In 1822 he was endowed with a royal grant that let him travel and develop his interests. In the same year he's had his writers debut – first storybook „The Youthful Attempts”. In 1829 made his debut as drama author, but with no big success. The first book of tales he’d published in 1835. Had been publishing them successfully for next 40 years.
Hans Christian Andersen died in August 4th, 1875 in Rolighed near Copenhagen.