Olivier de Serres (1539-1619) was a French agronomist and writer, often regarded as the father of modern agriculture in France. He is best known for his influential work, Le Théâtre d'Agriculture, published in 1600, which provided practical advice on farming techniques and crop management. De Serres emphasized the importance of scientific methods in agriculture and advocated for the use of crop rotation and soil improvement. In addition to his contributions to agriculture, de Serres was also a pioneer in promoting the cultivation of various plants, including tobacco and potatoes. His efforts helped to improve agricultural productivity in France and laid the groundwork for future advancements in farming practices.