F. Scott Fitzgerald is widely considered to be one of the most significant American writers of the 20th century. Born in St. Paul, Minnesota in 1896, Fitzgerald was exposed to the literary world from a young age, with his mother being an avid reader and his father working as a salesperson for Procter & Gamble’s Midwest branch.

Fitzgerald's talent for writing was apparent from a young age, and he began developing stories for his school's literary magazine. After graduating from high school, he enrolled at Princeton University but dropped out after two years to join the army.

It was during his time in the army that Fitzgerald began writing some of his most iconic works, including his debut novel, "This Side of Paradise," which was published in 1920. The novel was an instant success, establishing Fitzgerald as a major literary figure and catapulting him to fame.

Throughout his career, Fitzgerald continued to produce critically acclaimed works, including "The Beautiful and the Damned," "The Great Gatsby," "Tender Is the Night," and "The Last Tycoon." His writing explored themes such as love, wealth, ambition, and the American Dream.

Alongside his writing career, Fitzgerald was known for his glamorous lifestyle, which included parties, socializing with celebrities, and a tumultuous relationship with his wife, Zelda Fitzgerald. Despite his success, he struggled with alcoholism and financial difficulties, with much of his work being influenced by his own experiences.

Years after his death in 1940, Fitzgerald's reputation continued to grow, with his novels being reevaluated for their literary significance, and his writing influencing generations of authors. Today, Fitzgerald's work remains a vital part of American literary canon, and his legacy continues to inspire writers and readers around the world.