Ray Bradbury was an American author, best known for his works in science fiction and fantasy. Born on August 22, 1920, in Waukegan, Illinois, he gained fame for his imaginative storytelling and thought-provoking themes. His most famous work, Fahrenheit 451, explores the dangers of censorship and the loss of individuality in a dystopian society. Throughout his career, Bradbury wrote numerous novels, short stories, and plays, earning him various awards, including the Nebula Award and the World Fantasy Award. His writing often reflects his love for literature, technology, and the human experience, making him a significant figure in 20th-century American literature.