Francis James Child (scholar)

Francis James Child was an American scholar of folklore and literature, best known for collecting and studying traditional British and American ballads—stories told through song that often feature heroic deeds and moral lessons. In the late 19th century, he compiled the "Child Ballads," a comprehensive anthology that preserved these oral storytelling traditions. His work helped shape the understanding of folk culture and the origins of many famous songs, influencing literature, music, and historical research. Child's meticulous research provided a lasting record of these oral stories, highlighting their cultural significance across generations.