Maturin Murray Ballou was a prominent writer and publisher in 19th-century Boston, Massachusetts. Born on April 14, 1820, he made significant contributions to the literary and publishing worlds. Ballou co-founded Gleason's Pictorial, a popular illustrated newspaper of the time, and became the first editor of the Boston Daily Globe, helping shape the early years of the publication. He was also known for his travel books, in which he shared his vivid experiences exploring various parts of the world. In addition to travel writing, Ballou authored numerous works of popular fiction. His writings were widely read and appreciated for their engaging storytelling and keen observations. Ballou's work often reflected his fascination with cultural and geographical exploration, making him a notable figure in the field of travel literature. He passed away at the age of 74 on March 27, 1895, in Cairo, Egypt. Ballou's legacy remains through his contributions to both literature and the publishing world. His father was Hosea Ballou.