Richard Morris Hunt was an influential American architect born on October 31, 1827, in Brattleboro, Vermont. He is best known for his role in introducing the Beaux-Arts style to the United States, which emphasized grandeur and classical details. Hunt designed several notable buildings, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City and the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina. Hunt was also a founding member of the American Institute of Architects and served as its first president. His work significantly impacted American architecture, blending European styles with local needs and materials. He passed away on July 31, 1895, leaving a lasting legacy.