Lev Tolstoy was a renowned Russian author born on September 9, 1828. He is best known for his epic novels, including War and Peace and Anna Karenina, which explore complex themes of morality, society, and human experience. Tolstoy's writing style is characterized by deep psychological insight and rich character development. In addition to his literary achievements, Tolstoy was also a philosopher and social reformer. He advocated for nonviolent resistance and simple living, influencing figures like Mahatma Gandhi. Tolstoy's ideas on spirituality and ethics continue to resonate today, making him a significant figure in both literature and philosophy.