Archibald Joseph Cronin was a Scottish physician and novelist, renowned for his compelling storytelling and exploration of social issues. Born on 19 July 1896 and passing away on 6 January 1981, Cronin is best known for his novel The Citadel (1937), which critiques the medical profession and helped inspire the National Health Service in Britain.

His experience as a medical inspector of mines and a physician in Harley Street informed his writing. The Citadel, about a Scottish physician's journey from a Welsh mining village to London, addresses themes of venality and incompetence in medicine. Another of his acclaimed works, The Stars Look Down, reflects his time working with miners in North East England.

Several of his novels, including Hatter's Castle, The Keys of the Kingdom, and The Green Years, were adapted into films. His 1935 novella, Country Doctor, inspired the beloved BBC series Dr. Finlay's Casebook (1962–1971), followed by a series from 1993 to 1996.