Leo Tolstoy (1828-1910) was a Russian novelist, essayist, and philosopher. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest authors of all time. His works, such as War and Peace and Anna Karenina, are considered masterpieces of realist fiction. Tolstoy was also a moral and religious thinker, and his writings on non-violence, morality, and social justice had a profound influence on the development of modern thought. He was a passionate advocate for the rights of the oppressed and a vocal critic of the Russian government. His life and works continue to inspire people around the world.