William Hickling Prescott (1796–1859) was an American historian and one of the most celebrated writers of the 19th century. His life and career are a testament to his remarkable determination. At the age of 19, he suffered a severe eye injury that left him nearly blind. Despite this immense challenge, he devoted his life to historical research and writing. To overcome his disability, he developed a unique system: a team of readers would read to him in various languages, and he would dictate his writing using a special writing frame that allowed him to work without sight.
Prescott specialized in Spanish history and the conquest of the New World. He saw his work as a way to tell the stories of grand events in a dramatic and engaging style, believing that history should be a form of art. His other notable works include The History of the Conquest of Peru and The History of the Reign of Ferdinand and Isabella. He is remembered not only for his brilliant writing but also for his incredible perseverance, which allowed him to create some of the most enduring historical narratives ever written.
