Henry Fielding (April 22, 1707-October 8, 1754) was an English novelist and dramatist known for his rich, earthy—if sometimes crude—humor and satirical prowess. His most famous work is the novel The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling (1749). The novels and plays he wrote criticizing the government and rival authors often struck a discordant note with contemporary leaders, especially Sir Robert Walpole. Despite his political disfavor, he later became London's Chief Magistrate. While his literary work scandalized many, his role in the development of the novel as a major art form was significant