Albert Camus was a pivotal figure in 20th-century French literature and philosophy, celebrated for his profound influence on the intellectual landscape of his time. Born in Algeria to French parents during the period of French colonization, Camus' upbringing in a poverty-stricken neighbourhood deeply informed his views and writings. He pursued philosophy at the University of Algiers, which laid the foundation for his future contributions to philosophical thought and literature.

During World War II, Camus joined the French Resistance and served as the editor-in-chief of Combat, an underground newspaper. His experiences during this time fueled his subsequent works and activism. Camus was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1957, recognizing "the ensemble of a work that highlights the problems raised in the conscience of men of today." He was the second-youngest recipient of the award and the first African-born writer to be honored in this way. His premature death in an automobile accident shortly after receiving the Nobel Prize marked the end of a brief but impactful career.

Camus is best known for his contributions to the philosophy of absurdism, a theme prevalent in his seminal works such as The Stranger, The Plague, The Myth of Sisyphus, The Fall, and The Rebel. Despite often being associated with existentialism, Camus explicitly rejected this label, emphasizing his distinct philosophical views. His stance during the Algerian War advocated for a multicultural and pluralistic Algeria, demonstrating his commitment to moral and political ideals.

Camus' legacy extends beyond his literary and philosophical contributions; he was a symbol of intellectual resistance against totalitarianism, an advocate for European integration, and a proponent of individual freedom. His work remains a powerful exploration of the human condition, the absurdity of existence, and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe.