Robert E. Howard was born in Peaster, Texas in 1906. He began writing stories at a young age and continued to do so throughout his life. 1)
Howard created the character of Conan the Barbarian in 1932 when he was just 26 years old. The character first appeared in a story called “The Phoenix on the Sword.” 2)
Conan was inspired by a combination of historical figures, such as Genghis Khan and Attila the Hun, as well as fictional characters like Tarzan. 3)
Howard wrote more than 20 stories featuring Conan the Barbarian. These stories were published in various pulp magazines in the 1930s. 4)
Howard also created other characters and worlds, such as the sailor Steve Costigan and the Western hero Breckinridge Elkins. 5)
Howard struggled with depression throughout his life, and in 1936 he took his own life at the age of 30. 6)
Despite his short life, Howard is considered one of the most influential writers of pulp fiction. 7)
Conan the Barbarian has been adapted into numerous movies, TV shows, and comic books. 8)
The first Conan movie, released in 1982, starred Arnold Schwarzenegger in the title role. 9)
Howard was a contemporary and friend of other famous pulp writers, such as H.P. Lovecraft and Clark Ashton Smith. 10)
Howard's writing style was characterized by its fast-paced action, vivid descriptions, and strong characters. 11)
In addition to pulp fiction, Howard also wrote poetry and non-fiction, including articles on Texas history. 12)
Howard was an avid reader of history and often incorporated historical details and events into his stories. 13)
Howard's work has influenced many writers who followed him, including J.R.R. Tolkien, George R.R. Martin, and Steven Pressfield. 14)
Howard's legacy continues to be celebrated by fans around the world, who gather at conventions and online communities to discuss his work and its impact on popular culture. 15)