Leo Tolstoy, born Lev Nikolayevich Tolstoy on September 9, 1828, in the Tula Province of Russia, is celebrated as one of the greatest novelists in literary history. He passed away on November 20, 1910, in Astapovo, Russia. Tolstoy's profound impact on literature and philosophy has made him a central figure in both realms, and his works continue to resonate with readers around the world.

Tolstoy's early life was marked by privilege and tragedy. Born into an aristocratic family, he was raised on the family estate of Yasnaya Polyana. After the death of his mother at a young age and the passing of his father shortly thereafter, Tolstoy was raised by relatives. His education was sporadic, and he later enrolled in the University of Kazan, where he studied law and languages, though he eventually dropped out. These formative experiences would shape his later views on society and morality.

Tolstoy's literary career began in earnest in the 1850s with his early works, including "War and Peace" (1869) and "Anna Karenina" (1877), both of which are considered masterpieces of world literature. "War and Peace" explores the impact of the Napoleonic Wars on Russian society, while "Anna Karenina" delves into themes of love, infidelity, and social norms. His later works, such as "The Kreutzer Sonata" and "The Death of Ivan Ilyich," reflect his evolving philosophical and spiritual beliefs, particularly in relation to the nature of happiness and the moral dilemmas of life.

In his personal life, Tolstoy faced a range of challenges, including a tumultuous marriage to Sofia Bezukhov, with whom he had 13 children. His spiritual journey ultimately led him to embrace a form of Christian anarchism, advocating for nonviolent resistance and simplicity. This philosophical shift caused tensions within his family and society, but it also fueled his writings and social activism. Tolstoy's legacy endures, as his explorations of human experience continue to inspire and provoke thought among readers and thinkers alike.