Mariano José de Larra was a prominent Spanish writer and journalist born on March 24, 1809, in Madrid. He is best known for his essays and articles that critiqued Spanish society and politics during the early 19th century. Larra's work often reflected his deep concern for the cultural and social issues of his time, making him a key figure in the Romanticism movement in Spain. Larra's most famous pieces include "El doncel de don Enrique el Doliente" and "La nochebuena de 1836." Tragically, he struggled with personal issues and took his own life on February 13, 1837. His legacy continues to influence Spanish literature and journalism, and he is remembered as a pioneer of modern Spanish prose.