Stephen Crane (1871-1900) was an American novelist, poet, and journalist whose works helped shape the development of modern American realism. Though he was born after the Civil War, Crane's vivid imagination and journalistic skill enabled him to create one of the most convincing literary portrayals of battlefield experience in The Red Badge of Courage. His other notable works include Maggie: A Girl of the Streets and the short story "The Open Boat." Despite his short life, Crane's writing left a lasting influence on American literature.