Sir Henry Rider Haggard (1856–1925) was an English writer, who is best known for his adventure fiction set in exotic locations, predominantly Africa, and a pioneer of the Lost World literary genre. He was born in Norfolk, England, into a family with a history of military and colonial administration service. Haggard's travels to Africa, after failing his army entrance exam, provided him with inspiration for many of his most notable works. His experiences deeply influenced his vision and served as a backdrop for his fiction. One of Haggard's most famous novels is 'She and Allan' (1921), which is a crossover work combining two of his most enduring characters, Ayesha from 'She: A History of Adventure' (1887) and Allan Quatermain from 'King Solomon's Mines' (1885). This intersection of characters showcases Haggard's unique blend of adventure, mysticism, and romance, set against the mysterious African landscape. His works were characterized by vivid imagination and narrative prowess, and they reflected a romantic vision of the British empire's role in exploring and civilizing the world. Haggard's literary influence is notable in the works of contemporary and later writers who have embraced and expanded upon the adventure and fantasy genres.