Robert D. Kaplan is an American journalist, author, and foreign policy analyst known for his work on political and social developments in distant countries. Born on June 23, 1952, Kaplan has been a prolific writer, contributing to major publications like The Atlantic, The Washington Post, and The New York Times, among others. He is particularly recognized for his blend of travelogue-style reporting and geopolitical analysis. Kaplan's books often examine the historical context and cultural tensions that underpin modern-day conflicts and power struggles. He has served as a correspondent for The Atlantic for many years and is also a senior fellow at the Center for a New American Security in Washington, D.C. Some of his notable works include "Balkan Ghosts," which influenced U.S. policy in the Balkans in the 1990s, and "The Coming Anarchy," which presents a pessimistic view of the future stability of the international system. Kaplan's writing is characterized by his firsthand observations, deep historical knowledge, and a realpolitik approach to understanding the world.