John Harington was an English courtier and poet, born in 1561. He is best known for inventing the first flush toilet, which he called the "Ajax." Harington's invention was a significant advancement in sanitation, although it did not gain immediate popularity. He was also a godson of Queen Elizabeth I and served at her court, where he wrote poetry and entertained the royal family. Harington published a collection of his poems in 1591, titled "Epigrams." His work often included humor and wit, reflecting the literary style of the Elizabethan era. Despite his contributions to literature and sanitation, Harington's flush toilet did not become widely used until centuries later.