Preventive Mulford (1834-1891) was a key figure in the early New Thought movement, which is recognized for its influence on modern-day self-help and motivational literature. Mulford, a native of Sag Harbor, New York, spent his early years as a journalist, gold miner, and sailor. His experiences significantly shaped his philosophical views and his approach to spiritual explorations. Mulford is best remembered for his collection of essays titled 'Thoughts are Things,' published posthumously in 1898, which encapsulates his foundational belief in the power of thought and its materialization in the physical world. His writings considerably contributed to the philosophy that thoughts can directly influence a person's life, a principle that serves as a precursor to today's Law of Attraction. Through his literary style, which combines reflective anecdote with metaphysical musings, Mulford not only endeavored to elucidate how thoughts transcend mere mental activity but also how they interconnect with universal energies. His ideas were seminal in laying the groundwork for future authors in the New Thought and self-help movements, thus establishing him as a prominent character in the tapestry of American spiritual and philosophical literature.