Tom Joad is a fictional character from John Steinbeck's novel, *The Grapes of Wrath*. He is a young man who returns home to Oklahoma after being released from prison. The story follows his journey as he and his family face the hardships of the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl, which force them to migrate to California in search of a better life. Throughout the novel, Tom evolves from a self-centered individual into a socially conscious figure. He becomes a symbol of resistance against injustice, embodying the struggles of the Okie migrants. His character highlights themes of family, community, and the fight for dignity amidst adversity.