Simone de Beauvoir wasn’t just a writer—she was a force of nature. A thinker, a feminist, an existentialist, and a rebel who redefined what it meant to be a woman in the modern world. Born in 1908, this French intellectual didn’t just observe history—she made it. She challenged societal norms, rewrote the rules of feminism, and inspired generations with her bold ideas.
You may have heard of her groundbreaking book The Second Sex, but did you know she also traveled the world, influenced the existentialist movement, and had a love life that could rival a French drama? Buckle up, because we’re diving into the fascinating world of Simone de Beauvoir!
She Wrote The Second Sex—and Changed the World
If there was a feminist Bible, The Second Sex would be it. Published in 1949, this book was radical, rebellious, and downright scandalous for its time. Simone dissected how women had been viewed throughout history, calling out the ways society treated them as "the Other"—basically, as second-class citizens.
She declared "One is not born, but rather becomes, a woman," challenging the idea that gender roles are natural. Instead, she argued that they are imposed by society. This book laid the foundation for second-wave feminism, influencing activists and thinkers around the world.
But it wasn’t just a bestseller—it was banned by the Vatican! Yes, The Second Sex landed on the Catholic Church’s list of prohibited books, making Simone one of history’s ultimate literary rebels.
She Had a Legendary Partnership with Jean-Paul Sartre
Forget Hollywood romances—Simone de Beauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre had a love story like no other. The two met in 1929, and though they never married (Simone wasn’t about that traditional life), they had a deep intellectual partnership that lasted for decades.
What made their relationship so unique?
They were intellectual equals—constantly challenging each other’s ideas.
They had an open relationship, which was very ahead of its time.
They never lived together but remained deeply connected through letters, travel, and philosophy.
Sartre may have been the face of existentialism, but Simone was just as influential in shaping the movement. She blended philosophy with feminism, showing that personal freedom was essential—not just for men, but for everyone.
She Traveled the World & Fought for Women’s Rights
Simone wasn’t just a thinker—she was a doer. She traveled to China, the U.S., Cuba, Brazil, and even Soviet Russia, soaking in different cultures and political systems.
She met Che Guevara in Cuba, supported women’s abortion rights in France (which helped lead to its legalization in 1975), and spoke out against colonialism and racism. In 1971, she signed the Manifesto of the 343, a powerful statement where 343 women (including famous figures like Catherine Deneuve) admitted to having abortions—despite it being illegal at the time.
She didn’t just write about injustice—she fought against it.
She Was a Literary Superstar & Won Prestigious Awards
Simone wasn’t just a philosopher—she was also a master storyteller.
She wrote novels, essays, and memoirs, winning the prestigious Prix Goncourt for her book The Mandarins in 1954. This semi-autobiographical novel explored post-war intellectual life in France, featuring characters inspired by her and Sartre.
Her memoirs, including Memoirs of a Dutiful Daughter, give readers an intimate look into her journey from a young, religious girl to a radical thinker who changed the world.
She Was Buried Next to Sartre—But Her Legacy Stands Alone
Simone de Beauvoir passed away in 1986, and she was buried alongside Sartre in Montparnasse Cemetery in Paris. But let’s be clear—she was never just “Sartre’s partner”. She was a philosopher, writer, feminist icon, and revolutionaryin her own right.
Her ideas about gender, freedom, and society continue to shape feminist thought today. Every time we talk about gender equality, breaking stereotypes, or personal freedom, we’re carrying forward a piece of Simone’s legacy.
Final Thoughts: Why Simone de Beauvoir Still Matters Today
Simone de Beauvoir didn’t just talk about feminism—she lived it. She questioned norms, pushed boundaries, and refused to be put in a box.
Today, in a world still grappling with gender inequality, her work is as relevant as ever. Whether you’re a student of philosophy, a lover of literature, or someone who just loves a good rebellious thinker, Simone’s story is one worth knowing.
Want to dive deeper into her work? Pick up The Second Sex, watch a documentary about her life, or just keep questioning the world around you—because that’s exactly what she would want.
Stay bold, stay curious, and keep questioning everything. Vive Simone!