Lothar-Günther Buchheim was a German author and painter, best known for his novel "Das Boot," which depicts life aboard a German submarine during World War II. Born on February 2, 1918, in Weimar, Germany, he served in the German Navy and later became a war correspondent. His experiences greatly influenced his writing. In addition to his literary work, Buchheim was an accomplished painter and founded the Buchheim Museum in Bernried, which showcases his art and collections. He passed away on February 22, 2007, leaving a significant legacy in both literature and the visual arts.