George Orwell was an English novelist, essayist, journalist, and social critic whose writing remains among the most influential in modern literature. Born Eric Arthur Blair in British India in 1903, he became known for his sharp critiques of political oppression, authoritarianism, propaganda, and social inequality. His best-known works include Animal Farm, a political allegory about revolution and the corruption of power, and Nineteen Eighty-Four, a dystopian novel that introduced ideas such as Big Brother, thoughtcrime, and Newspeak into popular culture. Orwell also wrote acclaimed works including Homage to Catalonia, Down and Out in Paris and London, and The Road to Wigan Pier. Known for his clear, direct prose and commitment to political truth, Orwell continues to shape discussions about democracy, freedom, surveillance, propaganda, and the abuse of power.