Francis Parkman was an American historian and writer born on September 16, 1823, in Boston, Massachusetts. He is best known for his detailed accounts of the early history of North America, particularly his works on the French and Indian War and the American West. Parkman's writing style combined vivid storytelling with thorough research, making his historical narratives engaging and informative. Parkman faced significant health challenges throughout his life, including blindness in one eye, which affected his ability to write. Despite these obstacles, he published several influential books, including The Oregon Trail and Montcalm and Wolfe. He passed away on November 8, 1893, leaving a lasting legacy in American historical literature.