Alexander Dumas was a French writer born on July 24, 1802, in Villers-Cotterêts, France. He is best known for his historical novels, particularly The Three Musketeers and The Count of Monte Cristo. Dumas's works often feature themes of adventure, friendship, and betrayal, and they have been translated into many languages. Dumas was the son of a French general and a Haitian woman, which influenced his perspective on race and society. He became one of the most popular authors of the 19th century, and his stories have inspired numerous adaptations in film, theater, and other media. He passed away on December 5, 1870.