Isaac Merritt Singer was an American inventor and businessman, best known for his contributions to the sewing machine industry. Born on October 27, 1811, in Pittstown, New York, he developed the first practical sewing machine in 1851, which revolutionized garment manufacturing and home sewing. His design included a straight needle and a foot pedal, making it easier to operate. In addition to his invention, Singer founded the Singer Sewing Machine Company, which became one of the largest manufacturers of sewing machines in the world. His innovative marketing strategies, including installment payment plans, helped make sewing machines accessible to many households, significantly impacting the textile industry.