William James Durant, commonly known as Will Durant, was a renowned American philosopher, writer and historian. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential thinkers of the 20th century and his contributions to the fields of philosophy, history, and literature are immeasurable. Synonyms for his name include "Will Durant", "W.J. Durant", and "William J. Durant". Durant's most notable work is "The Story of Civilization", an eleven-volume series of books that chronicles human history from ancient times to the present day. Durant's writings are still studied and celebrated for their insight, clarity, and enduring relevance, making him a true giant of intellectual thought.