Albert Einstein (March 14, 1879 – April 18, 1955), born in Ulm, Germany, was a groundbreaking theoretical physicist who fundamentally transformed our understanding of the universe. Renowned for his Theory of Relativity, which redefined concepts of time, space, and gravity, Einstein’s contributions to physics paved the way for modern quantum mechanics and were instrumental in the development of atomic energy. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1921 for his explanation of the photoelectric effect, which supported the foundation of quantum theory.

Fleeing the rise of the Nazi regime, Einstein emigrated to the United States in 1933 and became an American citizen in 1940. He joined the Institute for Advanced Study at Princeton University, where he continued his research and lectured. Beyond his scientific legacy, Einstein was a committed humanist and pacifist, advocating for global peace, civil rights, and the ethical responsibilities of scientists. His intellectual achievements and humanitarian efforts have left an enduring impact on both science and society, influencing fields as diverse as philosophy, politics, and ethics.