February 27: historical facts and curiosities

On February 27, 1902, American author John Steinbeck was born. A master of American literature, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1962 for his realistic and sympathetic writings, which often depicted the lives of the working class and marginalized. His renowned works include 'The Grapes of Wrath,' 'Of Mice and Men,' and 'East of Eden,' capturing the social and economic struggles of early 20th-century America and remaining enduring classics.

On February 27, 1844, the Dominican Republic declared independence from Haiti. This act ended 22 years of Haitian rule over Hispaniola. Led by figures like Juan Pablo Duarte, this established the first Dominican Republic, a pivotal moment for national sovereignty.