William Dean Howells (1837-1920) was an American author and literary critic who played a significant role in the development of American literature in the late 19th century. He is considered the father of American realism and his most famous works include "The Rise of Silas Lapham" and "A Hazard of New Fortunes." Howells was also a champion of many of his contemporary writers, including Mark Twain and Henry James.