Charles McKim was an influential American architect born in 1847. He was a founding partner of the architectural firm McKim, Mead & White, which became one of the most prominent firms in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. McKim is known for his work in the Beaux-Arts style, which emphasizes grandeur and classical details. One of his most notable projects is the New York Public Library, completed in 1911, which showcases his design philosophy. McKim's contributions to architecture extended beyond buildings; he also played a significant role in the development of urban planning and public spaces in America.