David Friedrich Strauss

David Friedrich Strauss (1808–1874) was a German theologian and writer whose work helped shape modern historical-critical study of Christianity. Born in Ludwigsburg, Württemberg, he studied theology at Tübingen and was influenced by Hegelian philosophy. Strauss became widely known for *Das Leben Jesu, kritisch bearbeitet* (1835–36), translated as *The Life of Jesus, Critically Examined*, which argued that many Gospel narratives should be understood as myth rather than straightforward history. The book provoked intense controversy and affected his academic career. He later wrote *Der alte und der neue Glaube* (1872) and other works on religion, history, and culture. Strauss died in Ludwigsburg.