Daniel Defoe (c. 1660 – 1731) was an English writer, journalist, and spy, now most famous for his novel 'Robinson Crusoe' (1719). Born as the son of James Foe, a butcher from London, Defoe later added 'De' to his surname to sound more gentlemanly. He was a prolific writer and a keen observer of society, which is reflected in his work. Defoe's 'The Friendly Daemon, or the Generous Apparition' is a ...