Samuel Johnson was an English writer and lexicographer, born in 1709. He is best known for his influential dictionary, A Dictionary of the English Language, published in 1755. This work was one of the first comprehensive dictionaries and set the standard for future dictionaries in the English language. In addition to his dictionary, Johnson was a prominent essayist and poet. He contributed to the literary world through his writings in The Rambler and The Idler, which explored various topics and moral questions. Johnson's impact on literature and language continues to be recognized today, making him a significant figure in English literary history.