Birth of Valerie Solanas
Valerie Solanas was born on April 9, 1936, in Ventnor City, New Jersey. She was the only child of a working-class family, which shaped her views on gender and class throughout her life.
1936
1953
Education at the University of Maryland
Valerie Solanas attended the University of Maryland, where she began to explore her interest in writing and feminist ideas. She later transferred to the University of Minnesota, where she continued her studies.
1960
First Published Work: "The World Is Yours"
In 1960, Valerie Solanas published her first work, a play titled "The World Is Yours," which reflected her early feminist views and the societal roles of women.
1967
Publication of "SCUM Manifesto"
Valerie Solanas's most famous work, "SCUM Manifesto," was published in 1967. This radical feminist text called for the elimination of men and the creation of a society run by women, asserting that women should take control of their own destinies.
1968
Attempted Murder of Andy Warhol
In June 1968, Valerie Solanas shot artist Andy Warhol, believing he had betrayed her by not producing her play "Up Your Ass." This incident brought her significant media attention and further complicated her legacy.
1970
Arrest and Institutionalization
Following the shooting incident, Valerie Solanas was arrested and later institutionalized for mental health treatment. This period marked a significant decline in her public presence.
1971
Publication of "Up Your Ass"
Valerie Solanas's play "Up Your Ass" was published in 1971, showcasing her provocative style and feminist themes. The play was largely ignored at the time but has gained recognition in later years.
1977
Theatrical Revival of Solanas's Work
In 1977, Valerie Solanas's work began to be revisited by feminist artists and playwrights, leading to a revival of interest in her radical ideas and contributions to feminist literature.
1980
Decline in Public Life
Throughout the 1980s, Valerie Solanas withdrew from public life, facing numerous personal struggles, including homelessness and mental health issues. Her work was largely forgotten during this time.
1996
Death of Valerie Solanas
Valerie Solanas passed away on April 25, 1996, in San Francisco, California, due to pneumonia. Her death marked the end of a tumultuous life that had a lasting impact on feminist thought.
2000s
Resurgence of Interest in Solanas's Work
The early 2000s saw a resurgence of interest in Valerie Solanas's writings, especially "SCUM Manifesto," which was re-evaluated in the context of contemporary feminist movements and discussions on gender.
2015
Cultural Representations of Solanas
Valerie Solanas's life and work were depicted in various cultural forms, including plays and films, highlighting her influence on feminist art and activism. She became a symbol of radical feminist thought.
2020
Legacy and Feminist Discourse
Valerie Solanas's legacy continues to be a topic of discussion in feminist discourse, with scholars and activists examining her contributions to radical feminism and the ongoing relevance of her ideas in today's society.
2023
Continued Academic Interest in Solanas
By 2023, Valerie Solanas's work was being studied in various academic settings, with courses focusing on her writings and their implications for modern feminist theory and activism.
