Leo N Tolstoi

Leo (Lev) Tolstoy (1828–1910) was a Russian writer from an aristocratic family. He initially studied Oriental languages and law before joining the tsarist army in 1851 and serving in the Caucasus War and the Crimean War. His accounts of military life brought him early recognition as a writer. His best-known works include the novels “War and Peace” and “Anna Karenina.” Tolstoy also devoted himself to religious and social questions, advocating nonviolence and educational reform. After traveling through Europe, he founded village schools based on progressive educational ideas.