Richard Steele was an Anglo-Irish writer, playwright, politician, and co-founder of 'The Spectator' in the early 18th century. He wrote several works including 'The Christian Hero' in 1701 and helped launch 'The Tatler' in 1709 under the pseudonym Isaac Bickerstaff, collaborating with Joseph Addison. Steele held political office as a Whig Member of Parliament and was knighted for his service. He was married twice and had several children before passing away in 1729.