Ted Shawn was an influential American dancer and choreographer, born on October 21, 1891. He is best known for founding the Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival, which became a significant center for dance in the United States. Shawn was a pioneer in promoting male dancers and emphasized the importance of dance as a form of artistic expression. In addition to his contributions to dance, Shawn was a key figure in the development of modern dance. He created numerous works that blended various styles, including ballet and folk dance. His innovative approach helped elevate the status of dance as a respected art form in America.