Ralph Waldo Emerson’s 1837 speech 'The American Scholar' was described by Oliver Wendell Holmes as America's 'Intellectual Declaration of Independence' because it:
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Correct answer: Urged American writers to stop imitating Europe and create their own culture
Emerson challenged American thinkers to look to their own land and experiences for inspiration rather than relying on the 'courtly muses of Europe.' He advocated for the 'Man Thinking' who learns from nature, books, and action.
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