Mikhail Kalashnikov was a Russian general, small arms designer and a writer. He is known for his invention of the AK-47 assault rifle. During his lifetime, he created over 150 small weapon models. He was a sickly child, and circumstances led him to dropping out of school to become a tractor mechanic. He joined the ‘Red Army’ and rose through the ranks to become a tank commander. While convalescing in the hospital from battle wounds, he overheard a soldier complain about the inferior quality of Soviet rifles. That inspired him to design a new rifle for the Soviet military, and after many efforts, he succeeded in creating the legendary AK-47. Its simplicity and sturdiness made it a weapon of choice for militaries of 55 nations as well as terrorists. AK-47 was not patented until much late and he did not make much profit from it, though his family owned the trademark until quite recently. In his later years, he was deeply saddened by the misuse of his invention. A recipient of numerous awards, he also wrote several books. He died in Russia from a prolonged illness.