Windsor McCay was an American cartoonist and animator, best known for his pioneering work in early animation and comic strips. Born on September 26, 1869, he created the famous comic strip Little Nemo in Slumberland, which debuted in 1905. McCay's intricate artwork and imaginative storytelling captivated readers and set a high standard for future comic artists. In addition to his comic work, McCay is recognized for his animated films, particularly Gertie the Dinosaur, released in 1914. This short film showcased his innovative techniques and is considered one of the first examples of character animation. McCay's contributions significantly influenced the development of both comics and animation.