Richard Condon was an American author and screenwriter, best known for his novels that often explored themes of political intrigue and conspiracy. Born on March 18, 1915, in New York City, he gained fame with his 1959 novel, The Manchurian Candidate, which was later adapted into a successful film. Condon's writing style combined sharp wit with a keen understanding of human psychology. Throughout his career, Condon wrote several other notable works, including Winter Kills and The Ecstasy Business. His stories frequently reflected the anxieties of the Cold War era and critiqued American society. Condon passed away on April 9, 1996, leaving behind a legacy of thought-provoking literature.