Washington Irving

Biography

Washington Irving (1783–1859) was an American author, essayist, and diplomat who became one of the first writers to achieve international literary fame. He is best remembered for his imaginative tales, particularly "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" and "Rip Van Winkle," which helped establish American literature as a distinct literary tradition.

Irving was a cofounder of Sleepy Hollow Cemetery and served as U.S. Minister to Spain. His works blended humor, folklore, and social commentary, earning him recognition as a pioneering figure in American letters and contributing significantly to the cultural identity of the young nation.