Washington Irving (1783-1859) was an American writer, historian, and essayist, considered one of the first U.S. authors to gain international recognition. Born in New York, he is best known for his fictional works, such as The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and Rip Van Winkle, which blend elements of folklore, humor, and the supernatural. In addition to his literary work, Irving served as a diplomat and held various public positions in Europe. His narrative style and ability to capture the spirit of American life have made him a key figure in 19th-century American literature.