Pío Baroja was a prominent Spanish novelist born on December 28, 1872, in San Sebastián. He is known for his significant contributions to the Generation of '98, a group of writers who explored Spain's social and political issues during a time of crisis. Baroja's works often reflect his interest in existential themes and the human condition. Throughout his career, Baroja wrote over 40 novels, with notable titles including El árbol de la ciencia and Zalacaín el aventurero. His writing style is characterized by its simplicity and directness, making his stories accessible to a wide audience. Baroja passed away on October 30, 1956, leaving a lasting impact on Spanish literature.