Burroughs created Tarzan, John Carter

It is the birthday of fantasy writer Edgar Rice Burroughs (1875), who created the African jungle hero Tarzan, one of the best known characters in literature, in 1912.  Burroughs wrote 22 books featuring the ape man, but more Tarzan books (some authorized, some not) have been published since his death in 1950. Tarzan is a cultural icon, and has been featured in comic strips, movies, radio, television, on Broadway, in video games, and as action figures.

Burroughs also created a hero John Carter, a Civil War soldier who ends up on Mars. Though less well known until recently, the character was popular when he was introduced in 1912. Burroughs wrote the 11-book Barsoom series featuring Carter. In March, Walt Disney Pictures released a live-action film based on Burroughs' character. It bombed in the United States but was a hit in Russia.

Here is a short video about Edgar Rice Burroughs.