Joseph Jacobs was an Australian-born folklorist, literary critic, and historian best known for his contributions to the study of English folklore and fairy tales. Born in Sydney, Australia, to a Jewish family, Jacobs later moved to England, where he pursued higher education at the University of Cambridge. His passion for folklore and storytelling led him to collect and adapt traditional fairy tales, making them more accessible to young readers. His work helped popularize many well-known stories, including Jack and the Beanstalk, The Three Little Pigs, and Goldilocks and the Three Bears.

In addition to his work in folklore, Jacobs was a respected historian and scholar of Jewish history. He wrote extensively on Jewish culture and identity, contributing to the development of Jewish studies as an academic field. He served as the editor of the Jewish Encyclopedia and was involved in efforts to document and preserve Jewish heritage. His research on the history and demographics of Jewish populations in Europe provided valuable insights into Jewish life and migration patterns.

Jacobs' influence extended beyond his academic contributions, as his storytelling and adaptations continue to inspire generations of readers and scholars. His collections of fairy tales remain widely read, and his approach to folklore emphasized the importance of cultural preservation and accessibility. Through his work, he played a crucial role in shaping the study of folklore and ensuring that traditional tales were passed down to future generations in a way that remained engaging and relevant.