Leo Strauss was a German-American political philosopher known for his work on classical political philosophy and the interpretation of ancient texts. Born in 1899, he fled Nazi Germany and settled in the United States, where he taught at several universities. Strauss emphasized the importance of understanding the philosophical foundations of political thought and the tension between reason and revelation. His ideas have influenced various fields, including political theory, neoconservatism, and interpretive philosophy. Strauss is often associated with the concept of "esoteric writing," suggesting that philosophers sometimes conceal their true ideas to protect themselves from persecution. His legacy continues to spark debate among scholars and students alike.