Johann Rudolf Glauber was a 17th-century German chemist and alchemist, best known for his discovery of Glauber's salt, a sodium sulfate mineral. Born in 1604, he made significant contributions to the field of chemistry, particularly in the study of salts and their properties. His work laid the groundwork for future developments in both chemistry and medicine. Glauber is also recognized for his writings, which included practical applications of his chemical discoveries. His methods and findings influenced later scientists and helped establish the foundations of modern chemistry. He passed away in 1670, leaving a lasting legacy in the scientific community.