Pierre Choderlos de Laclos was a French novelist, army general, and writer, best known for his controversial novel Les Liaisons dangereuses (Dangerous Liaisons). Born in Amiens, France, Laclos led a multifaceted life that combined a military career with literary ambitions. His unique position in society allowed him to critique and explore the complex social dynamics of the French aristocracy, making him a notable figure in the literary world of the 18th century.