A biography is a detailed account of a person's life, written by another person or by the person themselves (an autobiography). Biographies are often written to inform and entertain readers, and can provide insights into the person's personality, motivations, and the events that shaped their life. Biographies can also be inspirational, showing readers what is possible if they follow their dreams and work hard.
Biographies may also include information on the following:
- The person's physical appearance
- Their interests and hobbies
- Their religious and political beliefs
- Their struggles and challenges
- Their legacy and impact on the world
Biographies can be written in a variety of formats, including books, articles, and documentaries. They can be short or long, and can be written for a general audience or for a specific group of people.
Here are some examples of how biographies can be used:
- A student might read a biography of a historical figure to learn more about their life and accomplishments.
- A person who is interested in a particular career might read a biography of someone who has been successful in that field.
- A person who is struggling with a personal challenge might read a biography of someone who has overcome similar challenges.
Biographies can be educational while also being inspirational.
Some Famous Biographies
- The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin by Benjamin Franklin
- The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
- Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela
- A Beautiful Mind by Sylvia Nasar
- Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson
- The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Malcolm X and Alex Haley
- The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
- Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
- I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
- The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
- Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi
- The Color Purple by Alice Walker
It is common for researchers and scholars to write biographies about famous people throughout history.
The first biography is believes to be James Boswell's "The Life of Samuel Johnson", a biography of lexicographer and man-of-letters written in 1791.