Susan Sontag was an influential American writer, filmmaker, and political activist, born on January 16, 1933, in New York City. She is best known for her essays on modern culture, art, and photography, particularly her works like On Photography and Against Interpretation. Sontag's writing often explored the relationship between art and society, challenging conventional views and encouraging deeper engagement with cultural phenomena. Throughout her career, Sontag was also involved in various political causes, advocating for human rights and social justice. She wrote extensively on topics such as Vietnam War and AIDS, using her platform to raise awareness and provoke thought. Sontag passed away on December 28, 2004, leaving a lasting impact on literature and cultural criticism.