Édouard Séguin was a French physician and educator born in 1812. He is best known for his work in the field of special education, particularly for children with intellectual disabilities. Séguin developed teaching methods that emphasized sensory experiences and hands-on learning, which laid the groundwork for modern special education practices. In 1848, Séguin moved to the United States, where he continued his work and founded the first school for children with disabilities in New York City. His contributions significantly influenced the development of educational approaches for individuals with disabilities, and he is often associated with the Montessori Method and the broader special education movement.