Napoleon Hill (1883-1970) was an American self-help author best known for his groundbreaking book "Think and Grow Rich" (1937). Born in poverty in rural Virginia, Hill began his writing career at age 13 as a "mountain reporter" for small-town newspapers. His life's work was inspired by a challenge from steel magnate Andrew Carnegie to interview successful people and develop a philosophy of personal achievement. Hill's writings, including "The Law of Success" (1928), emphasized the power of positive thinking and the importance of goal-setting in achieving success. His books have sold millions of copies worldwide and continue to influence readers today. Hill spent his later years lecturing and writing, and he passed away in South Carolina at the age of 87.