Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
- Born:
- June 29, 1900, Lyon, France
- Died:
- July 31, 1944 (presumed), Mediterranean Sea
- Nationality:
- French
- Profession(s):
- Writer, Poet, Aviator
Early Life and Education
- Born into an aristocratic family, he lost his father at a young age.
- Nicknamed "Sun King" (Le Roi-Soleil) due to his blond hair.
- Attended various schools, including a Jesuit school in Montgré.
- Failed the entrance exams to the École Navale.
Career and Major Achievements
- Served in the French Air Force starting in 1921.
- Became a pilot for Aéropostale, delivering mail across continents.
- Experienced several near-fatal plane crashes, which influenced his writing.
- Served in the French Air Force during World War II, initially with a reconnaissance squadron.
- Requested transfer to combat duty despite being over the age limit.
- Disappeared on a reconnaissance mission over the Mediterranean Sea in 1944; wreckage of his plane was found in 2000.
Notable Works
- Southern Mail (Courrier Sud, 1929)
- Night Flight (Vol de Nuit, 1931)
- Wind, Sand and Stars (Terre des Hommes, 1939)
- Flight to Arras (Pilote de Guerre, 1942)
- The Little Prince (Le Petit Prince, 1943)
Legacy and Impact
Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's legacy rests on his contributions to both literature and aviation. His works explored themes of courage, friendship, and the importance of human connection. He remains one of the most translated authors in the world, and his most famous work, The Little Prince, continues to be cherished by readers of all ages. This Antoine de Saint-Exupéry short biography highlights his major achievements and enduring influence.