Ambrose Bierce was an American writer, journalist, and Civil War veteran, born on June 24, 1842, in Meigs County, Ohio. He is best known for his satirical and often cynical writing style, particularly in his short stories and essays. Bierce's most famous work is The Devil's Dictionary, a humorous lexicon that offers witty definitions of common words. Bierce served in the Union Army during the American Civil War, which greatly influenced his writing. He later became a prominent journalist, contributing to various newspapers and magazines. His life ended mysteriously in 1914, when he disappeared in Mexico while seeking adventure during the Mexican Revolution.