The Headless Horseman is a legendary figure from American folklore, particularly associated with the story "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" by Washington Irving. In the tale, he is depicted as a ghostly soldier who lost his head during the Revolutionary War and now rides through the night in search of it. The story is set in the village of Sleepy Hollow, near the town of Tarry Town, New York. The character has become a popular symbol of Halloween and is often portrayed in various adaptations, including films, cartoons, and stage productions. The Headless Horseman is typically shown riding a black horse and carrying a pumpkin as a substitute for his missing head, contributing to his eerie and memorable image in popular culture.