Hamlin Garland (1860-1940) was a prolific American novelist, poet, essayist, and short story writer, who became particularly well-known for his depictions of Midwestern rural life. Born in West Salem, Wisconsin, Garland grew up on various homesteads in the Midwest, an experience that deeply influenced his writing. He was a prominent figure in the movement of American literary realism, and his contributions are often associated with the 'local color' movement, which sought to faithfully represent the vernacular and customs of America's different regions. Garland's most famous work, 'A Son of the Middle Border' (1917), is an autobiographical narrative that vividly portrays the hardships and transformations of family life in the American Midwest. Through it, and his many other works, Garland captured the complexities of the transition from frontier life to a more settled and industrialized American landscape. His writing style is marked by a blend of realism with a romantic strain, capturing both the grit and hope of the pioneer spirit. Among his numerous accolades, he was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for literature in 1922 for his book 'A Daughter of the Middle Border'. A staunch advocate for social reform, Garland's literary contributions extend beyond storytelling to include vocal support for American Indians' rights, which influenced his later work. His legacy thrives in the way he encapsulated the transformation of American society during a time of great change.