The first person to win the Nobel Prize in Literature was Selma Lagerlöf in 1909. She was a Swedish author known for her notable works such as "Gösta Berlings saga," which showcased her profound storytelling abilities and deep connection to Swedish nature and folklore. Lagerlöf was also known for her commitment to social issues, making her a key figure in early 20th century literature. Her win marked a significant recognition of female writers in an era when women's literary contributions were often overlooked.