Dirk Pitt is a fictional character created by author Clive Cussler. He is the protagonist of a series of adventure novels, first introduced in the book "Pacific Vortex!" published in 1976. Pitt is known for his adventurous spirit, expertise in marine archaeology, and skills in solving mysteries related to lost treasures and historical artifacts. As an agent of the National Underwater and Marine Agency (NUMA), Dirk Pitt often embarks on thrilling missions that involve exploration, danger, and environmental themes. The series combines elements of action, history, and science, making it popular among fans of adventure literature.