Luis Alberto Urrea: A Celebrated Author and Human Rights Advocate

#### Full Name and Common Aliases
Luis Alberto Urrea is a Mexican-American novelist, poet, and essayist whose works are widely acclaimed for their lyrical prose and poignant exploration of the human condition.

#### Birth and Death Dates
Born on June 5, 1959, in Tijuana, Mexico, Urrea has lived in the United States since childhood. His birthdate is a fitting reminder that his experiences as a Mexican-American have shaped his writing and worldview.

#### Nationality and Profession(s)
Urrea's nationality is both Mexican and American, reflecting the complex identity of many individuals living along the U.S.-Mexico border. As an author, he has worked in various genres, including fiction, poetry, essay, and memoir. His literary career spans over three decades, during which time he has published numerous bestselling novels, collections of short stories, and essays.

#### Early Life and Background
Urrea was born to a Mexican mother and American father, and his early life was marked by frequent moves between Tijuana and the United States. He grew up in San Diego, California, where he developed a deep appreciation for the cultures of both countries. Urrea's experiences living on the border have had a profound impact on his writing, which often explores themes related to identity, belonging, and the complexities of the U.S.-Mexico relationship.

#### Major Accomplishments
Urrea is the recipient of numerous awards and honors for his work, including the American Book Award, the Lannan Literary Award, and the National Medal of Arts. His novels have been translated into several languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide. Notably, _The Devil's Highway_ (2004) won the Pulitzer Prize as a finalist in the category of General Nonfiction.

#### Notable Works or Actions
Urrea is perhaps best known for his novel _Into the Beautiful North_ (2009), which explores themes related to identity, family, and migration. His non-fiction work, _The Devil's Highway_ (2004), tells the true story of a group of migrants who attempted to cross the Arizona desert in 2001, only to perish in one of the deadliest incidents on record. Urrea has also written extensively about the human rights abuses faced by migrants and asylum seekers at the U.S.-Mexico border.

#### Impact and Legacy
Luis Alberto Urrea's writing has had a profound impact on contemporary literature, offering readers a unique perspective on the complexities of identity, culture, and human experience. His work serves as a testament to the power of storytelling in bridging cultural divides and promoting understanding between nations. As a human rights advocate, Urrea continues to speak out against injustices faced by migrants and asylum seekers, using his platform to raise awareness about these critical issues.

#### Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Luis Alberto Urrea's writing is widely quoted and remembered for its lyrical prose, nuanced exploration of the human condition, and unflinching portrayal of the complexities faced by individuals living along the U.S.-Mexico border. His commitment to social justice and human rights has earned him a reputation as a fearless advocate for those most vulnerable in our society. As an author and human rights activist, Urrea continues to inspire readers around the world with his words, offering a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of literature.