William Booth (1829–1912) was a British Christian preacher and social reformer, best known as the founder of The Salvation Army. Born on April 10, 1829, in Nottingham, England, Booth began his career as a Methodist minister. Moved by the plight of the poor and destitute in London’s East End, he dedicated himself to evangelical and charitable work. In 1865, Booth and his wife, Catherine Booth, started a mission to bring the message of salvation to the marginalized. This mission grew into The Salvation Army in 1878, structured like a military organization, with Booth as its first “General.” The Army combined preaching the gospel with practical social aid, including food distribution, shelters, and rehabilitation programs. William Booth’s legacy is one of compassion, action, and social justice. He died on August 20, 1912, but The Salvation Army continues his work around the world.