John Gay was born in Barnstaple, Devonshire. He was educated at Bideford Grammar School. After a period as an apprentice silk merchant, Gay turned to writing. His first significant publication was the poem 'Rural Sports' in 1713. He gained considerable fame with 'The Beggar's Opera' in 1728, a scathing satire of Britain's political and social system, which also popularized the ballad. Other important works include 'Trivia, or, The Art of Walking the Streets of London' and the farce 'The Rehearsal at Gotham'. Despite his success, Gay frequently struggled with financial difficulties. He died on December 4, 1732, in London and was buried in Westminster Abbey.