Leo Kanner was an Austrian-American psychiatrist best known for his pioneering work in the field of autism. In 1943, he published a groundbreaking paper that described a group of children who exhibited unique behavioral patterns, which he termed "early infantile autism." His research laid the foundation for understanding autism as a distinct developmental disorder. Kanner's work emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and intervention for children with autism. He also explored the role of environmental factors and parental relationships in the development of the disorder. His contributions significantly influenced the fields of psychology and psychiatry, shaping how autism is perceived and treated today.