Karl Kraus was an Austrian writer, journalist, and playwright, born in 1874. He is best known for his sharp critiques of society, politics, and the media during the early 20th century. Kraus founded the influential magazine Die Fackel, which served as a platform for his satirical commentary and literary works. His writing often focused on the moral decay he perceived in contemporary culture. Kraus's most famous work is the play The Last Days of Mankind, which depicts the absurdities of World War I and its impact on society. He was a controversial figure, known for his fierce opposition to Zionism and anti-Semitism, and his legacy continues to influence writers and thinkers today.