Hans Christian Andersen was a Danish author best known for his fairy tales, such as "The Little Mermaid," "The Ugly Duckling," and "The Emperor's New Clothes." He was born in 1805 and became a prolific writer, poet, and playwright. His works have been translated into many languages and have had a lasting impact on children's literature around the world. Andersen's stories often contain moral lessons and themes of perseverance, kindness, and the triumph of the underdog. He is considered one of the greatest storytellers of all time.