Guy de Maupassant was a French writer born on August 5, 1850, in the Normandy region of France. He is best known for his short stories, which often explore themes of human nature, love, and the struggles of everyday life. Maupassant's writing style is characterized by its clarity and precision, making his works accessible to a wide audience. Throughout his career, Maupassant published over 300 short stories, as well as novels and travel writing. Some of his most famous works include Boule de Suif, The Necklace, and Bel-Ami. He is considered one of the fathers of the modern short story and had a significant influence on later writers, including Ernest Hemingway and Anton Chekhov. Maupassant passed away on July 6, 1893.