Sarah Palin is an American politician, author, and commentator born on February 11, 1964, in Sandpoint, Idaho. She rose to national prominence as the Governor of Alaska from 2006 to 2009 and became the first female vice-presidential nominee of the Republican Party in 2008, running alongside Senator John McCain. Palin is known for her conservative views on issues such as gun rights, energy independence, and limited government. She has authored several books and continues to be a prominent figure in American politics and media.