Robert Ripley was an American cartoonist, entrepreneur, and adventurer, best known for creating the popular franchise Ripley's Believe It or Not!. Born on December 25, 1890, in Santa Rosa, California, he began his career as a sports cartoonist before expanding into oddities and unusual facts from around the world. Ripley's work featured bizarre and fascinating stories, showcasing unique cultures and extraordinary people. His first collection of oddities was published in 1929, leading to a series of books, radio shows, and television programs. Today, Ripley's Believe It or Not! continues to entertain audiences with its intriguing exhibits and stories.