Rick Atkinson, born on November 15, 1952, is an acclaimed American author known for his works on military history. He began his career in journalism, serving as a reporter, editor, and foreign correspondent for The Washington Post before turning to historical writing. Atkinson has won numerous accolades, including three Pulitzer Prizes, one of which was for history.

His notable works include the Liberation Trilogy, which covers the American role in the liberation of Europe during World War II. The trilogy concluded with The Guns at Last Light in 2013. Atkinson has also embarked on the American Revolution Trilogy, with books such as The British Are Coming and The Fate of the Day, which provides a vivid narrative of the American Revolutionary War.

In 2010, Atkinson was honored with the Pritzker Military Library Literature Award for Lifetime Achievement in Military Writing. His books are celebrated for their detailed research, engaging storytelling, and fresh perspectives on historical events.