María Montessori was an Italian physician and educator born on August 31, 1870. She is best known for developing the Montessori Method, an educational approach that emphasizes child-led learning and hands-on activities. Her work focused on understanding how children learn and the importance of creating a supportive environment for their development. In 1907, Montessori opened her first school, the Casa dei Bambini, in Rome. Her innovative teaching methods gained international recognition, leading to the establishment of Montessori schools worldwide. Montessori's philosophy encourages independence, respect for a child's natural development, and the belief that education should be tailored to each individual learner.