L. Sprague de Camp (1907–2000)
L. Sprague de Camp was a prolific American writer of science fiction, fantasy, and non-fiction, renowned for his meticulous research, scientific rationalism, and often humorous approach to speculative fiction. He is particularly celebrated for his historical fantasies like "Lest Darkness Fall" and his contributions to the sword and sorcery genre, often collaborating with authors like Robert E. Howard and Fletcher Pratt. De Camp was also a respected historian of science and technology, bringing a rigorous academic perspective to his fictional and factual works.