Born on This Day: November 29

American orator whose abolitionist and reform advocacy influenced antislavery and labor movements.

American novelist whose Little Women became an enduring work of literature and women’s history.

American choreographer whose geometric spectacles transformed the movie musical.

British writer and scholar whose fiction and Christian apologetics reached generations of readers.

American author whose science-fantasy novels transformed young-adult literature.

American dancer and anthropologist whose work brought African and Caribbean traditions into modern dance.

American comedian whose self-aware television work influenced modern comedy.

American actor and activist whose performances and advocacy have influenced contemporary cinema and humanitarian work.