Ben Hecht was an influential American screenwriter, director, producer, and playwright, born on February 28, 1894, in New York City. He is best known for his work in Hollywood during the 1920s and 1930s, contributing to classic films such as Scarface (1932) and Gone with the Wind (1939). Hecht's writing style was characterized by sharp dialogue and innovative storytelling. In addition to his film career, Hecht was a prominent journalist and a passionate advocate for Jewish causes, particularly during World War II. He wrote extensively about the plight of Jews in Europe and was involved in efforts to rescue Jewish refugees. His diverse talents and commitment to social issues left a lasting impact on American cinema and culture.