Who put transcendental ideals of self reliance and communion with nature into practice?

It's difficult to definitively say who "put" transcendental ideals into practice, as it's a complex movement with many individuals who embraced and acted upon its principles in different ways. However, we can point to some key figures who embodied these ideals in their lives and works:

Major Figures:

* Ralph Waldo Emerson: He was the central figure of Transcendentalism, articulating its core tenets in essays like "Self-Reliance" and "Nature." He lived a relatively self-sufficient life, although his success as a writer allowed him some financial security.

* Henry David Thoreau: Thoreau, Emerson's close friend, is perhaps the most famous example of someone who put transcendental ideals into practice. He famously lived in a cabin at Walden Pond for two years, seeking self-sufficiency and communion with nature. He documented his experiences in his book "Walden," which remains a cornerstone of the Transcendentalist movement.

* Margaret Fuller: A prominent writer, critic, and feminist, Fuller embraced Transcendentalism and challenged gender roles and societal expectations. She championed individual self-reliance and encouraged women to seek intellectual and spiritual fulfillment.

* Amos Bronson Alcott: A writer and educator, Alcott founded the Transcendentalist community of Fruitlands in Massachusetts, which aimed to live by principles of self-sufficiency, communal living, and spiritual exploration. While short-lived, it embodied the spirit of Transcendentalist ideals.

Other Notable Individuals:

* Elizabeth Peabody: An influential figure in the Transcendentalist movement, Peabody promoted progressive education and social reforms.

* Orestes Brownson: Though he eventually distanced himself from Transcendentalism, he initially embraced its ideals and engaged in philosophical debates with Emerson and others.

* Theodore Parker: A Unitarian minister and social reformer, Parker embraced Transcendentalist principles and actively advocated for abolitionism and other social justice causes.

It's important to remember that Transcendentalism was not a monolithic movement. Individuals interpreted its principles in different ways, and their lives and actions reflected a variety of approaches. While some individuals like Thoreau engaged in radical self-sufficiency, others, like Fuller, focused on societal reform and challenging established norms.

Ultimately, the legacy of Transcendentalism lies not in any single individual but in the collective impact of those who embraced its ideals and sought to live authentically and in harmony with nature and themselves.