Daniel Defoe (a.

1659–1661 to 24 April 1731), born Daniel Foe, is an English trader, writer, journalist, and pamphleteer, who gains fame for his novel Robinson Crusoe.

Defoe is notable for being one of the earliest proponents of the novel, as he helps to popularize the form in Britain and along with others such as Richardson, is among the founders of the English novel.

A prolific and versatile writer, he writes more than 500 books, pamphlets and journals on various topics (including politics, crime, religion, marriage, psychology and the supernatural).

He is also a pioneer of economic journalism.