Transcendentalism is a philosophical and literary movement that emerged in the early 19th century in the United States. It emphasizes the inherent goodness of people and nature, advocating for self-reliance and individual intuition over traditional authority and societal norms. Key figures include Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau, who believed that individuals could achieve a deeper understanding of life through personal experience and connection with the natural world. The movement is often associated with a belief in the spiritual over the material, suggesting that true knowledge comes from within rather than from external sources. Transcendentalists encouraged a close relationship with nature, viewing it as a source of inspiration and truth. Their ideas have influenced various aspects of American culture, including literature, philosophy, and social reform.