Edward Bernays was an influential figure in the field of public relations and is often referred to as the "father of public relations." Born in 1891, he was the nephew of Sigmund Freud, whose psychoanalytic theories greatly influenced Bernays' approach to communication. He applied psychological principles to shape public opinion and consumer behavior, pioneering techniques that are still used in marketing today. Bernays is best known for his innovative campaigns, such as promoting Bacon as a breakfast staple and encouraging women to smoke through the "Torches of Freedom" campaign during the 1920s. His work demonstrated the power of media and messaging in shaping societal norms and consumer habits, establishing public relations as a vital industry.