Oscar Fingal O'Flahertie Wills Wilde was born on October 16th, 1854, and died on November 30th, 1900. He was an Irish playwright, poet, and author of numerous short stories and one novel. Known for his biting wit, he became one of the most successful playwrights of the late Victorian era in London and one of the greatest celebrities of his day. Several of his plays continue to be widely performed, especially The Importance of Being Earnest.