George Gordon, Lord Byron (1788-1824) was a famous English poet known for works like Childe Harold's Pilgrimage and Don Juan. He acquired his aristocratic title at a young age and had many scandals due to his relationships, including with his half-sister Augusta. Byron traveled extensively in Europe and joined the Greek war of independence before dying in Missolonghi at age 36. He is considered the original 'Byronic hero' who embodied qualities of rebellion, passion, and defiance.