Allan Pinkerton was a Scottish-American detective and spy, best known for founding the Pinkerton National Detective Agency in 1850. Born on August 25, 1819, in Scotland, he immigrated to the United States in 1842. Pinkerton gained fame for his work in law enforcement and for providing security services during the American Civil War. Pinkerton's agency was notable for its innovative investigative techniques and was involved in several high-profile cases, including the pursuit of Jesse James and the protection of Abraham Lincoln. His legacy continues to influence modern private investigation and security practices.