AynRand

Born Alice Rosenbaum in St. Petersburg, Russia, February 2, 1905.

Emigrated to the United States in 1926, changing her name to Ayn Rand.

Moved to Hollywood and began writing for the movie industry.

Married Frank O'Connor, 1929.

Released 'The Night of January 16th', a play, 1934.

Wrote two unsuccessful novels, 'We the Living' (1936), 'Anthem' (1938).

Wrote the best selling novel, 'The Fountainhead' (1943).

In 1951 met psychology student Nathaniel Branden, who became Rand's first follower, and later a romantic partner.

Wrote philosophical novel 'Atlas Shrugged' (1957), also a best seller.

Along with Branden, launched the Objectivist movement.

Developed and promoted her Objectivist philosophy through non-fiction works throughout the 1960s and 1970s.

Broke with Branden, 1968, following certain infidelities on his part.

Died March 6, 1982