In the history of Philippine fiction, Jose Rizal stands out. His novels were a call to action against Spanish oppression. They were also a way to show the Filipinos' own culture and identity. Another key figure is Nick Joaquin. He was a master at weaving together Philippine history, mythology, and the everyday lives of Filipinos into his fictional works. There's also Gilda Cordero - Fernando, who has made important contributions with her works that often have a touch of humor while dealing with serious Philippine social and cultural issues.
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 Jose Rizal. His fictional works were highly influential as they exposed the ills of Spanish colonial rule in the Philippines. He used fiction as a means of social and political commentary. Then there's Bienvenido Santos, who wrote about the Filipino experience, especially the experiences of Filipinos living abroad. And Lualhati Bautista, whose works are known for their strong female characters and exploration of social justice issues within the Philippine context.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
One important figure is Key, the developer of many popular visual novels like 'Air' and 'Kanon'. Their works are known for their emotional and engaging storylines. Another is TYPE - MOON, especially for creating 'Fate/stay night' which had a huge impact on the genre. Their detailed world - building and complex characters set a high standard. Also, the work of Nitroplus, with games like 'Phantom of Inferno', contributed to the diversification of visual novel themes and styles.