Andrej Sládkovič was a notable Slovak poet, born on April 30, 1820, in the town of Krupina. He is best known for his romantic poetry and his contributions to Slovak literature, particularly during the 19th century. Sládkovič's most famous work is the epic poem "Marína," which celebrates love and nature, reflecting the national awakening of the Slovak people. In addition to his poetry, Sládkovič was also involved in education and politics. He played a significant role in promoting the Slovak language and culture during a time when it faced challenges from dominant neighboring cultures. He passed away on December 14, 1872, leaving a lasting legacy in Slovak literature.