Henry Steel Olcott was an American military officer, journalist, and author, best known for co-founding the Theosophical Society in 1875 alongside Helena Petrovna Blavatsky. He played a significant role in promoting Eastern religions and philosophies in the West, emphasizing the importance of spiritual exploration and understanding.
Olcott was also a key figure in the revival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, where he worked to support the local Buddhist community and promote education. His efforts helped to establish schools and preserve Buddhist texts, making a lasting impact on the region's cultural and spiritual landscape.