Fiction · Literature

The Little Prince

@thelittleprince
10 Events1943 – 202077 Years

Explore the timeline of key events in 'The Little Prince,' the beloved story by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. From the Little Prince's departure from his asteroid to his adventures across different planets and his poignant encounters, this timeline captures the essence of his journey and the life lessons he learns along the way.

1930
1940
1950
1960
1970
1980
1990
2000
2010
2020
1936
1938
1942
1944
1946
1948
1952
1954
1956
1958
1962
1964
1966
1968
1972
1974
1976
1978
1982
1984
1986
1988
1992
1994
1996
1998
2002
2004
2006
2008
2012
2014
2016
2018
2022
2024
2026
06april
2020
06 april 2020

Publication of Enhanced Editions of The Little Prince

On April 6, 2020, to mark the 77th anniversary of its original publication, several enhanced editions of The Little Prince were released. These new editions included previously unpublished sketches and drafts by Saint-Exupéry, additional essays and commentary, and digital versions with interactive features. The aim was to provide deeper insights into the creative process behind the book and to renew interest in its multilayered storytelling for both new readers and established fans.

01januari
2016
01 januari 2016

Commemorative Coin Issued for The Little Prince

In 2016, a commemorative 2-euro coin featuring The Little Prince was issued by Monnaie de Paris to honor the book's cultural impact and Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's legacy. The coin became a collector's item and a symbol of the novella's significance. The issuance was part of larger efforts to celebrate and maintain the cultural heritage of Saint-Exupéry's work and acknowledged the book’s place in world literature.

29juli
2015
29 juli 2015

CGI Animated Film Release of The Little Prince

The CGI animated film adaptation of The Little Prince was released on July 29, 2015, directed by Mark Osborne. This adaptation brought a creative and modern retelling of the classic story, combining stop-motion animation with computer-generated graphics. The film introduced new dimensions to the book's narrative, appealing to both new generations and long-time fans with a fresh perspective, receiving critical acclaim for its innovative animation style and emotional depth.

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29juni
2000
29 juni 2000

Discovery of Saint-Exupéry's P-38 Wreckage

On June 29, 2000, pieces of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's downed P-38 Lightning aircraft were discovered in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Marseille. This discovery partially solved the mystery of his disappearance in 1944. Some of the wreckage was confirmed to be his aircraft through serial numbers, and it reignited interest in his life and works, including The Little Prince, sparking discussions on his legacy as both an aviator and author.

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01november
1993
01 november 1993

50th Anniversary of The Little Prince Publication

In 1993, the 50th anniversary of the publication of The Little Prince was celebrated worldwide with diverse activities, such as new translations, special commemorative editions, and new academic works focused on the book's enduring impact. The anniversary highlighted the novella's global significance, as countries worldwide embraced the celebration of the cross-cultural and philosophical themes expressed in Saint-Exupéry's timeless story.

07november
1974
07 november 1974

The Little Prince Musical Film Released

On November 7, 1974, a musical film adaptation of The Little Prince was released by Paramount Pictures. Directed by Stanley Donen, the film featured Bob Fosse, Gene Wilder, and Richard Kiley. The musical brought the enchanting story to life with a score by the legendary duo Lerner and Loewe. Though it received mixed reviews initially, it has since garnered a dedicated fan base and is remembered for its unique musical interpretation of the beloved book.

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18februari
1967
18 februari 1967

Television Adaptation of The Little Prince

The Little Prince was adapted into a television series in 1967, bringing the beloved tale to audiences in a new medium. This adaptation helped introduce the story to a broader audience, expanding its influence beyond the pages of the book. The series retained the heartwarming and thoughtful essence of Saint-Exupéry's original work, often emphasizing the allegorical and metaphysical themes explored in the novella.

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01januari
1950
01 januari 1950

Posthumous Publications and Fame of The Little Prince

In the years following World War II, and particularly after Saint-Exupéry's presumed death, The Little Prince gained significant popularity globally. The book was posthumously published in France and other European countries, where it rapidly became a classic among children and adults alike. Its philosophical depth, along with enchanting illustrations and poetic storytelling, contributed to its lasting success as it continues to be one of the most read books of the 20th century.

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31juli
1944
31 juli 1944

Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's Disappearance

Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, the author of The Little Prince, disappeared on July 31, 1944, while flying a Free French Airforce P-38 aircraft over the Mediterranean Sea during a reconnaissance mission. His disappearance was presumed to be a result of an aircraft crash, either due to an accident or being shot down by enemy forces. Despite an extensive search, neither his body nor the wreckage was immediately found, leading to much speculation and mystery surrounding his fate.

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06april
1943
06 april 1943

Publication of The Little Prince in French and English

The Little Prince, a novella by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, was published in French ('Le Petit Prince') and English on April 6, 1943, in the United States. The book, illustrated by Saint-Exupéry himself, tells the story of a young prince who travels from planet to planet, exploring themes of friendship, love, and the search for meaning. Over the years, it became one of the best-selling and most translated books worldwide, with hundreds of editions and translations.

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Frequently asked questions about The Little Prince

Discover commonly asked questions regarding The Little Prince. If there are any questions we may have overlooked, please let us know.

What are some of the major themes explored in 'The Little Prince'?

Who wrote 'The Little Prince' and what is the book about?

When was 'The Little Prince' first published?

How did Antoine de Saint-Exupéry come up with the idea for 'The Little Prince'?