George Orwell was a British author who provided insightful commentary on social and political issues during the mid-20th century. Born as Eric Arthur Blair on June 25, 1903, in Motihari, Bihar, India, Orwell is best known for his critically acclaimed novels such as Nineteen Eighty-Four and Animal Farm. His works are listed among the most important and widely-read literary works of the 20th century.

Orwell was a well-traveled individual, having spent his formative years in India and later moving to England. He embarked on a writing career after completing his schooling and showed promise from the start. His first published book, Down and Out in Paris and London, provided a firsthand account of poverty and squalor during his travels.

Orwell's writing often touched on political issues and his works were frequently critical of totalitarianism and inequality. One of his most famous works, Nineteen Eighty-Four, is an unflinching critique of authoritarianism and its impact on personal freedom. Written during a time of rising authoritarian regimes, the book has since become a cultural touchstone and an important dystopian novel.

Animal Farm, another of Orwell's seminal works, is a satirical novella that explores the devastating effects of communist revolution. Drawing inspiration from the Russian Revolution, the book shows how revolutionary movements can quickly turn into authoritarian dictatorships.

Orwell's writing has had a profound impact and continues to be widely-read today. His works are considered essential reading for anyone interested in politics, society, and history. His clear and lucid writing style, combined with his unflinching critique of totalitarian regimes, has made him a timeless figure and a celebrated author.