Heinrich Heine was a German poet, essayist, and literary critic born on December 13, 1797, in Düsseldorf. He is known for his lyrical poetry and sharp wit, often blending romanticism with social and political commentary. Heine's works, such as Book of Songs, reflect his deep love for Germany and his criticism of its political landscape. Heine spent much of his later life in Paris, where he became a prominent figure in the literary scene. His writings influenced many later authors and movements, including Romanticism and Modernism. He died on February 17, 1856, leaving a lasting legacy in world literature.