John L. Stephens

Born in 1805, he trained as a lawyer in New York before turning toward travel writing and diplomacy. He served in a U.S. diplomatic post in Central America and became widely known for the journeys he made there with the English artist and architect Frederick Catherwood.

Their expeditions led to some of the most famous travel books of the 19th century, including Incidents of Travel in Central America, Chiapas, and Yucatan and later works on Yucatán. Stephens's clear, lively writing brought places such as Copán and Palenque to a broad audience, while Catherwood's illustrations gave readers striking images of the ruins.

He later became involved in the development of the Panama Railroad. Although he died relatively young in 1852, his books remained influential and are still remembered as an important early bridge between popular travel writing and the study of the ancient Maya.