Washington Irving, known to countless readers as the author of such quirky tales as The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and Rip Van Winkle, set out to become a lawyer, but turned to literature due to poor health. His weak constitution didn't prevent him from writing and travelling extensively, however, supported by his family until diplomatic work and literary success fortified his independence. In addition to his American sketches, Irving penned a wide range of historical works, including biographies of George Washington and Mohammed.
