Cyrus McCormick was an American inventor and businessman best known for developing the mechanical reaper, a machine that revolutionized agriculture in the 19th century. Born on February 15, 1809, in Virginia, he created the reaper to help farmers harvest crops more efficiently, significantly increasing productivity and reducing labor costs. McCormick founded the McCormick Harvesting Machine Company in 1831, which later became part of International Harvester. His innovations played a crucial role in the agricultural revolution, helping to transform farming practices in the United States and contributing to the growth of the American economy. He passed away on May 13, 1884.