David Graham Phillips (1867-1911) was a notable American novelist and journalist of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born in Madison, Indiana, Phillips was known for his incisive and critical examination of the American social and political system. His body of work often laid bare the stratification and hypocrisy he perceived within society, particularly as it related to the influence of the wealthy. Graduating from Princeton University in 1887, Phillips initially pursued a career in journalism. He wrote for several newspapers before dedicating himself fully to literature. One of his key novels, 'The Second Generation' (1903), echoes Phillips' preoccupations by dissecting the complexities and moral compromises of the children of wealthy parents as they grapple with their inherited status and privilege. A hallmark of Phillips' literary style is his piercing narrative voice that challenges societal norms. His novels typically combine social critique with compelling storytelling, providing insight into the human condition while probing the socioeconomic fabric of his time. Tragically, his career was cut short when he was assassinated in 1911 by a deranged individual who misinterpreted one of Phillips' novels as a personal attack. Despite his untimely death, Phillips left a lasting legacy through his influential written works that continue to invite reflection on the nature of power and moral responsibility in America.