John Boynton Priestley was an English writer, novelist, playwright, and social commentator. He is best known for his works that explore the social and political issues of his time, particularly in the early 20th century. Priestley's writing often reflected his concerns about class divisions, inequality, and the impact of historical events on society. He is also remembered for his play "An Inspector Calls," which is a classic of English literature and continues to be widely studied and performed. Priestley's work has had a lasting influence on English literature and continues to be celebrated for its insightful commentary on the human condition.