James T. Farrell was an American author born on February 27, 1904, in Chicago, Illinois. He is best known for his novels that explore the lives of working-class individuals, particularly in the context of urban America. His most famous work, the Studs Lonigan trilogy, depicts the struggles and aspirations of a young man growing up in Chicago during the early 20th century. Farrell's writing is characterized by its realistic portrayal of social issues and its focus on the complexities of human relationships. He was a prominent figure in the Chicago literary scene and contributed significantly to American literature until his death on August 22, 1979.