John Kenneth Galbraith was a prominent American economist, author, and public official, born on October 15, 1908. He is best known for his influential works on economic theory and policy, particularly in the areas of Keynesian economics and institutional economics. Galbraith served as a professor at Harvard University and held various government positions, including serving as the U.S. Ambassador to India. Galbraith authored several notable books, including "The Affluent Society" and "The New Industrial State," which challenged traditional economic thought and emphasized the role of large corporations in shaping the economy. His ideas contributed to discussions on wealth distribution and consumerism, making him a significant figure in 20th-century economic thought.