Defoe, Daniel: - Daniel Defoe (1660-1731) was an English writer, journalist, and businessman who is best known for his novels, particularly Robinson Crusoe, which is widely considered to be one of the first novels in the English language. Defoe was born in London to a wealthy Presbyterian family and was educated at a dissenting academy. Defoe initially worked in the hosiery trade but later turned to writing, publishing a variety of political and social commentary in newspapers and pamphlets. He was a prolific writer, producing over 500 works during his lifetime, including novels, poetry, and essays. Defoe's most famous novel, Robinson Crusoe, was published in 1719 and tells the story of a man who is shipwrecked on a deserted island and must survive on his own. The novel was a huge success and has been translated into numerous languages. In addition to his literary pursuits, Defoe was involved in politics and served as a spy and propagandist for the British government. He was imprisoned several times for his controversial writings, including his support for religious toleration and his criticisms of the government. Defoe died in 1731 and is remembered as one of the most important figures in English literature, as well as a pioneering journalist and political commentator.