Ludwig Mies van der Rohe was a prominent German-American architect known for his minimalist style and innovative use of materials. Born on March 27, 1886, in Aachen, Germany, he played a key role in the Bauhaus movement and later became a leading figure in modern architecture. His designs often emphasized simplicity and functionality, using glass and steel to create open spaces. Mies is best known for iconic buildings such as the Farnsworth House and the Seagram Building in New York City. His famous motto, "Less is more," reflects his belief in the power of simplicity in design. Mies passed away on August 17, 1969, leaving a lasting impact on architecture.