Some important figures in the history of African fiction are Chinua Achebe, as mentioned before. His work was crucial in presenting African culture to the international world. Ngugi wa Thiong'o has been important for his political and cultural critiques in his fiction. Also, Bessie Head, a Botswanan writer, who wrote about the lives of the marginalized in Africa. Her works add depth to the understanding of African society in the context of African fiction history.
One of the most prominent figures in the history and development of the African novel is Chinua Achebe. His work was revolutionary as it presented a true picture of African society before and during colonialism. Another important writer is Ngugi wa Thiong'o. He has been vocal about the importance of writing in African languages and his novels often touch on the political and cultural struggles in Africa. Then there is Buchi Emecheta, who has written about the experiences of women in African society, highlighting their challenges and strength.
Jose Rizal is a very important figure. His works, like 'Noli Me Tangere' and 'El Filibusterismo', are not only important in Philippine fiction but also in the fight for independence. Nick Joaquin is also significant, known for his works that explore Filipino culture and history. Another is F. Sionil Jose, whose novels often deal with social and political issues in the Philippines.
One important figure is Miguel de Cervantes. His 'Don Quixote' is considered a milestone in the history of novels. Another is Jane Austen, known for her novels about English society and relationships. Charles Dickens is also crucial. His works like 'Oliver Twist' and 'Great Expectations' depicted the social issues of his time vividly.
Osamu Tezuka is a very important figure. He is often credited as the pioneer of modern anime. His works, like 'Astro Boy', set the foundation for many anime storytelling elements. Another important figure is Hayao Miyazaki. His movies from Studio Ghibli, such as 'Princess Mononoke' and 'Howl's Moving Castle', are known for their beautiful art and deep themes. Also, Akira Toriyama, the creator of 'Dragon Ball', had a huge impact on the shonen genre of anime.
As I mentioned before, H.G. Wells and Isaac Asimov are likely to be among them. They are very well - known science fiction authors.
Jules Verne was a very important figure. His works like 'Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea' and 'Around the World in Eighty Days' were highly influential. H.G. Wells was also crucial. His books such as 'The War of the Worlds' are considered classics in the early science fiction genre.
Well, it might mention Isaac Asimov. He was a very important figure in science fiction, known for his Foundation series.
I'm not sure there are specific 'figures' in the traditional sense in the early parts like the Big Bang era. But for the part related to human history, scientists like Charles Darwin are important as he explained evolution.
Ashoka is a very important figure. He was an emperor of the Mauryan Empire and his conversion to Buddhism led to the spread of the religion far and wide. Another is Mahatma Gandhi, who led India's non - violent struggle for independence from the British. Akbar, the Mughal emperor, is also important as he promoted religious tolerance and cultural synthesis during his reign.
Will Eisner is an important figure. His work laid the foundation for modern graphic novels. Alan Moore is also key. His works like 'Watchmen' are highly regarded. Art Spiegelman with 'Maus' is significant too as it dealt with serious topics in a unique graphic novel format.