Charlotte Perkins Gilman (1860-1935) was a pioneering feminist writer and sociologist known for her works exploring the experiences and struggles of women in society. Born in Connecticut, she lived a life marked by personal tragedy and financial hardship, which inspired much of her writing. Gilman's most famous work, "The Yellow Wallpaper," is a short story that is widely considered a classic of American feminist literature, exploring the theme of women's oppression and the dangers of the then-prevalent "rest cure" treatment for women's mental illness. Through her writing, Gilman advocated for women's rights and equality, inspiring generations of feminist writers and activists.