Hiram Gilmore "Harry" Bates III, born on October 9, 1900, was an American science fiction editor and writer whose work left a lasting impact on the genre. Active during the twentieth century, Bates contributed to the field of speculative fiction through both his editorial roles and his own creative writing. His career spanned key developmental periods for science fiction, helping to establish themes and narratives that would influence future generations of writers and filmmakers.\n\nBates is most widely recognized for his 1940 short story, "Farewell to the Master." This notable work achieved significant cultural reach when it was adapted as the basis for the landmark 1951 science fiction motion picture The Day the Earth Stood Still. Through this adaptation, Bates's imaginative concepts transitioned from the printed page to the cinema screen, securing his place in the history of science fiction media. He passed away in September 1981, leaving behind a legacy tied to one of the genre's most famous cinematic adaptations.
