Alejo Carpentier was a Cuban novelist, essayist, and musicologist, born on December 26, 1904, in Lausanne, Switzerland. He is best known for his influential works that explore themes of magic realism, a literary style that blends fantastical elements with realistic settings. Carpentier's writing often reflects his deep appreciation for Latin American culture and history. Throughout his career, Carpentier wrote several acclaimed novels, including The Kingdom of This World and The Lost Steps. He was also a prominent figure in the Cuban literary scene and served as Cuba's cultural attaché in Paris. Carpentier passed away on April 24, 1980, in Paris, France.