Edgar Allan Poe (1809 - 1849) was an American poet, journalist, and critic. Credited with inventing the detective story genre, he also played a significant a role in improving international copyright law and increasing wages for writers during the early 19th century. Though he published his first book at 18 and spent his entire professional life in one writing pursuit or another, Edgar didn't achieve widespread acclaim until "The Raven" was published in 1845. Even then, he continued to be plagued by the poverty and personal tragedy that makes his life read like one of his own tales. Edgar died at the age of 40, from causes still undetermined. Read more about his life here.