
Beatrix Potter, born in 1866, was an English author, illustrator, and conservationist best known for her children's books featuring the character Peter Rabbit. Born into a wealthy family, Potter had a privileged upbringing and developed a passion for the natural world from an early age. She began writing and illustrating stories for children as a way to entertain herself and her younger brother, and her first book, The Tale of Peter Rabbit, was published in 1902. The book was an immediate success and launched Potter's career as a successful children's author. Throughout her lifetime, Potter wrote and illustrated over 20 children's books, which continue to be beloved by generations of readers. In addition to her writing, Potter was also an accomplished artist and a passionate advocate for the conservation of the natural world. She was instrumental in the preservation of the Lake District in England and helped to establish the National Trust, an organization dedicated to protecting and preserving places of natural beauty and historical interest.