Dale Carnegie (November 24, 1888 – November 1, 1955) originally Dale Harbison Carnagey, was an American writer and lecturer best known for his self-improvement courses, books, and lectures on public speaking, interpersonal skills, and salesmanship. He was born into poverty on a farm in Maryville, Missouri. Carnegie overcame early hardships to become a pioneer in the field of personal development. His most famous work, "How to Win Friends and Influence People" (1936), has sold millions of copies worldwide and remains a seminal guide in personal development and communication. Carnegie's teachings emphasized the importance of understanding and relating to others, fostering positive relationships, and achieving personal and professional success through effective communication and empathy.