Murat Halstead (1829–1908) was a distinguished American journalist, editor, and war correspondent who gained prominence in the late 19th century. Born in Ross, Ohio, Halstead displayed an affinity for writing and current affairs from an early age. After starting his career in journalism at the Cincinnati Commercial, he quickly rose through the ranks to become its editor. Halstead's reportage was marked by a vivid writing style and an assertive approach to covering events like the Civil War and international wars (Ayers, 1920). His reputation was further solidified by his books, which often focused on political and military subjects. Among his works, 'The Story of the Philippines' is notable for its comprehensive account of Philippine history and culture, contextually significant during the Spanish-American War period. The book offered insights into colonialism, warfare, and socio-political dynamics, reflecting Halstead's skill in intertwining narrative flair with factual reporting (Halstead, 1898). His varied literary contributions encapsulated both the fervor of American expansionism and a keen objective lens on global developments, rendering him a significant figure in the realm of 19th-century American journalism and literature.