Friedrich Wöhler was a German chemist born on July 31, 1800, in Eschersheim, Germany. He is best known for his synthesis of urea in 1828, which was the first organic compound created from inorganic materials. This groundbreaking work challenged the prevailing belief in vitalism, the idea that organic compounds could only be produced by living organisms. Wöhler's contributions to chemistry extended beyond urea. He also made significant advancements in the study of silicon, isomerism, and the development of various organic compounds. His work laid the foundation for modern organic chemistry and influenced many future scientists, including August Kekulé and Robert Bunsen.