Mary Anderson was an American actress and playwright, born on February 17, 1859, in Sacramento, California. She gained fame in the late 19th century for her performances in various theatrical productions, particularly in the works of William Shakespeare. Anderson was known for her strong stage presence and emotional depth, which captivated audiences of her time. In addition to her acting career, Mary Anderson was also a pioneer in the field of theater management. She established her own theater company and toured extensively, bringing classic plays to a wider audience. Her contributions to the arts have left a lasting legacy in American theater history.