Washington Irving, born in 1783 in New York City, became one of America's first internationally celebrated authors. He began his career with satirical pieces under the pseudonym Jonathan Oldstyle. He gained fame with The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent., which included Rip Van Winkle and The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Irving spent much of his life in Europe, where he mingled with literary greats and served as a diplomat. His works helped shape an American literary identity, blending history with imagination.Irving's success extended beyond fiction; he also wrote historical biographies, including those of Christopher Columbus and George Washington. His time in Spain inspired Tales of the Alhambra, displaying his talent for vivid historical storytelling. A strong advocate for copyright protections, Irving helped ensure that writers could earn a living from their work. His influence encouraged fellow American authors, advancing a unique national literature.In his later years, Irving returned to his estate, Sunnyside, in Tarrytown, New York, where he continued writing until his death in 1859. His legacy endures through his contributions to American literature and his role in elevating American authors worldwide. Irving's works, filled with humor, history, and myth, make him a foundational figure in the literary canon.
