Napoleon Hill is an American author widely regarded as one of the founding figures of the modern personal success and self-help genre. Born in Wise County, Virginia, he began his career as a journalist before rising to international acclaim with his bestselling book Think and Grow Rich, published in 1937 following two decades of research into the habits and philosophies of successful individuals. Commissioned by steel magnate Andrew Carnegie, he spent years interviewing hundreds of America's most successful business figures, including Henry Ford and Thomas Edison, distilling their principles into a philosophy centered on definiteness of purpose, persistence, and the power of focused thought. Think and Grow Rich went on to become one of the best-selling self-help books of all time, laying the philosophical groundwork for much of the personal development literature that followed throughout the 20th century. Beyond his signature work, he authored additional books, including The Law of Success, further developing his ideas on goal-setting and the mindset required for achievement. Known for his foundational, principle-based approach to success and personal achievement, Hill's work continues to shape modern self-help writing and inspire readers across the world.