Theodore Dreiser, born in 1871 in Terre Haute, Indiana, was a prominent American novelist and journalist. He became a key figure in the naturalist literary movement, known for his realistic portrayals of human life shaped by social and economic forces. His works often examined characters driven by ambition and desire, reflecting the deterministic views of naturalism.Dreiser began his career in journalism before turning to novels, with Sister Carrie (1900) and An American Tragedy (1925) being his most famous works. He explored dark aspects of American life, addressing poverty, class struggle, and industrialization's effects. His complex, morally ambiguous characters marked a departure from idealized portrayals of society.Despite facing criticism for his controversial depictions, Dreiser had a lasting impact on American literature. His works challenged societal norms and offered a deeper, more nuanced view of human nature. He passed away in 1945, leaving behind a legacy as a pivotal figure in the naturalist movement.