Louisa May Alcott was an American author best known for her novel Little Women, published in 1868. Born on November 29, 1832, in Philadelphia, she grew up in a family that valued education and literature. Alcott's experiences as a young girl influenced her writing, particularly her portrayal of sisterhood and the challenges faced by women in the 19th century. In addition to Little Women, Alcott wrote several other works, including Little Men and Jo's Boys. She was also a feminist and an advocate for women's rights, using her writing to address social issues of her time. Alcott passed away on March 6, 1888, leaving a lasting legacy in American literature.