George Orwell

George Orwell, born Eric Arthur Blair, was born to Richard and Ida Blair in Motihari, British India. His father worked for the Opium Department of the Indian Civil Service.

Orwell begins his education at St Cyprian's School, a preparatory school in Eastbourne, Sussex, where he receives a classical education and begins to develop his literary interests.

Orwell wins a scholarship to Eton College, one of the most prestigious schools in England. Here, he further hones his writing skills and becomes more politically aware.

After leaving Eton, Orwell joins the Indian Imperial Police and is stationed in Burma. His experiences here profoundly influence his later works and political views.

Orwell resigns from the Indian Imperial Police, disillusioned with the colonial system. He moves to Paris and begins a life of poverty and writing, seeking to understand the working class.

Orwell publishes his first book, 'Down and Out in Paris and London,' a semi-autobiographical account of his experiences living in poverty. It receives critical acclaim and establishes him as a writer.

Orwell travels to Spain to fight against Franco's fascist forces in the Spanish Civil War. He is wounded and returns to England, where he writes 'Homage to Catalonia' about his experiences.

With the outbreak of World War II, Orwell joins the Home Guard and works for the BBC, broadcasting to India. His wartime experiences deepen his anti-totalitarian views.

Orwell publishes 'Animal Farm,' a satirical allegory of the Russian Revolution and Stalinism. The book becomes a critical and commercial success, cementing his reputation as a political writer.

Orwell publishes 'Nineteen Eighty-Four,' a dystopian novel that explores themes of totalitarianism, surveillance, and individualism. The book is widely acclaimed and remains a classic.

George Orwell dies of tuberculosis at University College Hospital in London. His legacy as one of the most influential writers and political thinkers of the 20th century is firmly established.