James Fenimore Cooper (1789–1851) built his reputation by writing vivid, adventure-filled stories about the American frontier. Born in Burlington, New Jersey, he grew up in a rural setting that inspired his imagination. His experiences with nature and early America’s wilderness shaped his novels, especially in El último mohicano. Cooper captured the conflict between Native Americans, settlers, and the untamed landscape in his stories.

Cooper's writing career began with the challenge of penning a novel, and he quickly became a prominent figure in American literature. His Leatherstocking Tales, particularly El último mohicano, introduced readers to the rugged frontiersman Natty Bumppo. Cooper’s work emphasized themes of freedom, wilderness, and morality, solidifying his influence on future American authors. He remains an important figure in early American literature, known for his storytelling and exploration of national identity.