Prof. Chinua Achebe (16 November 1930 - 21 March 2013) was a Nigerian novelist, poet, and critic who is widely regarded as one of Africa's greatest writers. His novel "Things Fall Apart" (1958) is one of the most widely read and studied African novels, having sold over 20 million copies worldwide. Achebe's works have been translated into over 50 languages and have influenced generations of African writers.


THINGS FALL APART:
Achebe's debut novel "Things Fall Apart" (1958) is one of the most important works in African literature. The novel tells the story of Okonkwo, an Igbo warrior, and explores the impact of colonialism on African societies. It has sold over 20 million copies worldwide and has been translated into over 50 languages, making it one of the most widely read African novels.

LITERARY ACHIEVEMENTS:
Achebe published numerous novels, short stories, poetry collections, and essays throughout his career. His other notable works include "No Longer at Ease," "Arrow of God," "A Man of the People," and "Anthills of the Savannah." His works explore themes of colonialism, post-colonialism, African identity, and social change. His literary achievements established him as one of Africa's most important writers.

AFRICAN LITERATURE PIONEER:
Achebe is considered a pioneer of modern African literature. His works helped establish African literature as a distinct and important literary tradition. He demonstrated that African stories could be told from African perspectives, challenging colonial narratives and stereotypes. His influence on African literature is immeasurable.

LITERARY CRITICISM:
Achebe was also a literary critic who wrote extensively on African literature and culture. His essay "An Image of Africa: Racism in Conrad's Heart of Darkness" is a seminal work in post-colonial literary criticism. His critical works have influenced how African literature is understood and studied.

EDUCATIONAL CONTRIBUTIONS:
Achebe was a professor of literature at various universities including the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Bard College, and Brown University. He mentored countless students and contributed to literary education. His academic work helped develop African literary studies and influenced literary scholarship.

INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION:
Achebe received numerous awards including the Man Booker International Prize (2007), the Commonwealth Poetry Prize, and honorary doctorates from over 30 universities worldwide. His works have been studied in universities globally, and he has been recognized as one of the world's greatest writers. His international recognition brought attention to African literature.

LEGACY AND INFLUENCE:
Chinua Achebe's legacy extends far beyond his individual works. Through "Things Fall Apart" and his other works, he brought African stories to global audiences and established African literature as a major literary tradition. He inspired generations of African writers and demonstrated that African perspectives matter in literature. His works continue to be studied and appreciated worldwide, and his influence on African literature is enduring.

FAST FACTS:
- Born 16 November 1930, died 21 March 2013 in Ogidi, Anambra State, Nigeria.
- Education: University of Ibadan (English Literature).
- Key Achievement: Author of "Things Fall Apart," one of the most widely read African novels.
- Publications: Over 20 books including novels, poetry, and essays.
- Recognition: Man Booker International Prize (2007), works translated into over 50 languages.
- Notable: Pioneer of modern African literature, sold over 20 million copies of "Things Fall Apart."
- Impact: Established African literature as major literary tradition, inspired generations of writers.
- Legacy: Works continue to be studied worldwide, enduring influence on African literature.