Bret Harte (1836–1902) was an American poet and short story writer, well known for his work about pioneer life in California. Moving to California from New York in 1853, Harte worked as a miner, teacher, messenger, and journalist, before becoming the editor of The Overland Monthly, a literary magazine highlighting the pioneering spirit prevalent in California during the mid-1800s. Harte is best remembered for his short fiction featuring miners, gamblers, and other romantic figures of the California Gold Rush. His most influential works include “The Outcasts of Poker Flat,” “Tennessee’s Partner,” and “The Luck of Roaring Camp.”