Horton the Elephant is a character from the children's book "Horton Hears a Who!" written by Dr. Seuss. He is known for his kind and gentle nature, as well as his ability to hear the tiny voices of the Whos, a small community living on a speck of dust. Horton believes in protecting the Whos, demonstrating his strong sense of responsibility and compassion. In the story, Horton faces challenges from other animals who doubt the existence of the Whos. Despite their ridicule, he remains steadfast in his belief that "a person's a person, no matter how small." This message emphasizes the importance of kindness and respect for all beings, regardless of their size.