Henry Rider Haggard was an English author born on June 22, 1856, in Norfolk, England. He is best known for his adventure novels, particularly those set in Africa, such as King Solomon's Mines and She. Haggard's works often feature themes of exploration, lost civilizations, and the clash of cultures. Haggard was also a prominent figure in the late 19th-century literary scene, contributing to the genre of fantasy and adventure fiction. His writing influenced many later authors, including J.R.R. Tolkien and H.P. Lovecraft. Haggard passed away on May 16, 1925, leaving behind a legacy of imaginative storytelling.