Miguel Piñero was a Puerto Rican playwright, poet, and actor, born on December 15, 1946, in Santurce, Puerto Rico. He is best known for his influential work in the theater, particularly for his play Short Eyes, which explores themes of race, identity, and the prison experience. Piñero's writing often reflected his own life experiences, including his struggles with poverty and incarceration. In addition to his work in theater, Piñero was a prominent figure in the Nuyorican Poets Cafe, a cultural hub for Puerto Rican artists in New York City. He was a key voice in the Nuyorican movement, which celebrated the unique experiences of Puerto Ricans in the United States. Piñero passed away on June 16, 1988, leaving a lasting impact on American literature and theater.