# Albert Camus
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Who / What
Albert Camus was a French philosopher, novelist, playwright, journalist, and political activist. Known for his existentialist and absurdist works, he explored themes of human suffering, freedom, and the search for meaning in an indifferent universe.
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Background & History
Born on **7 November 1913** in **Mondovi (modern-day Argelès-sur-Mer), French Algeria**, Camus grew up in poverty during World War I. His early life shaped his later writings, particularly his reflections on alienation and injustice. After studying philosophy at the University of Algiers, he became a journalist and published his first major works in the 1940s, including *The Stranger* (1942) and *The Plague* (1947). His intellectual engagement with existentialism, anti-colonialism, and political activism earned him international recognition.
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Why Notable
Camus is celebrated for his contributions to literature and philosophy, particularly through works like *The Myth of Sisyphus*, which critiques nihilism and embraces the absurdity of existence. His essays on ethics (*The Rebel*) and social justice influenced generations of thinkers. As a political activist, he opposed both fascism and communism, advocating for human rights and democratic values. The 1957 Nobel Prize in Literature further cemented his legacy as one of the most influential writers of the 20th century.
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In the News
Camus remains relevant today through his enduring exploration of existential questions, particularly in discussions about freedom, oppression, and societal responsibility. His ideas continue to resonate in debates on human rights, colonialism, and the ethics of resistance, making him a timeless figure in intellectual discourse.
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Key Facts
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