Gore Vidal was an American author, playwright, essayist, screenwriter, and political activist. He is best known for his novels, including 'Myra Breckinridge' and 'LINCOLN, ' as well as his essays and his television appearances. Vidal was a prolific writer who wrote more than 25 novels, five plays, and numerous essays and articles. He was also a vocal critic of the U.S. government and its policies. Vidal's works often explored themes of power, sexuality, and religion.