Samuel Johnson

Samuel Johnson (1709–1784) was an English writer and lexicographer, best known for his publication of "A Dictionary of the English Language" in 1755. This monumental work remained the preeminent English dictionary until the Oxford English Dictionary appeared 150 years later. Johnson's other notable achievements include his biography "The Life of Mr Richard Savage" (1744) and the critical work "Lives of the Most Eminent English Poets" (1779–1781). Johnson also contributed significantly to literary criticism and journalism, including his periodical essays in "The Rambler" (1750-1752). He was a prominent figure in the London literary world and a central member of the celebrated Club, which included luminaries like Joshua Reynolds and Edmund Burke.