Philip Francis Nowlan was an American author best known for creating the character Buck Rogers. Born on April 1, 1888, in Pennsylvania, he gained fame in the early 20th century for his science fiction stories. His work often explored themes of adventure and futuristic technology, capturing the imagination of readers. Nowlan's most notable contribution was the 1928 novella titled "Armageddon 2419 A.D.," which introduced Buck Rogers as a heroic figure in a post-apocalyptic world. This character became a cultural icon, leading to comic strips, radio shows, and films, significantly influencing the science fiction genre.