Erle Stanley Gardner
Born in 1889
Erle Stanley Gardner was an American lawyer and prolific author of detective fiction.
He created the iconic character Perry Mason, writing over 80 novels featuring the clever defense attorney.
Gardner began his writing career in pulp magazines, developing various series characters before focusing on Perry Mason.
His legal background informed his courtroom scenes and trial strategies.
Gardner also wrote under several pseudonyms and contributed non-fiction articles on travel, Western history, and forensic science.
His innovative storytelling and restless nature led him to transition from legal practice to full-time writing, where he found great success and popularity.