Daniel Defoe, born Daniel Foe on September 13, 1660, in London, England, is widely celebrated as one of the pioneers of the English novel. He passed away on April 24, 1731, in the same city. Defoe's career was diverse; he was not only a novelist but also a journalist, pamphleteer, and spy. His multifaceted contributions to literature and journalism have left an indelible mark on the literary landscape.

Defoe's early life was marked by modest beginnings. He was the son of a successful merchant, and although he received a basic education, he did not attend university. His early years were spent in a time of political turmoil and economic change in England, which influenced his later works. Initially, he pursued a career in business, but failed ventures led him to turn his attention to writing and journalism.

His literary career began in earnest in the early 1700s, a time when he gained notoriety for his satirical pamphlets. However, he is best known for his novel "Robinson Crusoe," published in 1719, which is often regarded as one of the first novels in the English language. Other notable works include "Moll Flanders," "A Journal of the Plague Year," and "Colonel Jack." Defoe's writing often reflected his keen observations of society, politics, and human nature, making him a significant figure in the development of the modern novel.

In his personal life, Defoe faced many challenges, including financial difficulties and imprisonment for his political views. He married Mary Tuffley in 1684, and they had several children together, but his financial instability often strained family life. Despite these challenges, Defoe's legacy endures through his innovative storytelling and his role in shaping the novel as a literary form.