Beatrix Potter was born on July 28, 1886, in Kensington, London. She—an author, illustrator, natural scientist, and conservationist—is best known for her imaginative children's literature that celebrated British country life.

Potter originally wrote The Tale of Peter Rabbit for her ex-governess' five-year-old son who was very ill. From such a simple beginning, the story has sold more than 40 million copies, and, as a result, Beatrix Potter has become one of the most acclaimed children's book authors of all time.