Stieg Larsson was a Swedish author and journalist who is best known for his internationally acclaimed Millennium series. He was born on August 15, 1954, in Skelleftehamn, Sweden, and spent most of his early years in northern Sweden. He was known for his investigative journalism, which focused primarily on far-right political extremism and fascist organizations. His writing and activism earned him many enemies, and he was frequently threatened and harassed by white supremacists.

Larsson began his writing career as a journalist for the Swedish news agency TT, where he covered a variety of topics including science, politics, and crime. In the 1980s, he became interested in far-right political extremism and started investigating and writing about these groups. He co-founded the anti-racist magazine Expo in 1995 and served as its editor-in-chief until his death.

Larsson is best known for his Millennium series of crime thrillers, which includes The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, The Girl Who Played with Fire, and The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest. These books became international bestsellers and were adapted into highly successful movie versions. They feature the unforgettable character of Lisbeth Salander, a fierce and complex computer hacker.

Larsson's writing is characterized by its gripping plots, complex characters, and strong social commentary. His stories often deal with issues such as violence against women, corruption, and the abuse of power. His work has been praised for its realism, depth of characterization, and social relevance.

Despite his success as a writer, Larsson tragically passed away in 2004 at the age of 50, before his books were published. His legacy and impact on the literary world continue to be felt today, and he remains one of the most celebrated and influential authors of the 21st century.