São Francisco de Assis, born in 1181 in Assisi, Italy, was a Catholic friar and the founder of the Franciscan Order. He is known for his deep love of nature and animals, often referred to as the patron saint of animals and the environment. His teachings emphasized humility, poverty, and a close relationship with God. Francis experienced a spiritual transformation after a period of illness and began to live a life of simplicity and service. He preached peace and compassion, attracting many followers. He was canonized as a saint by Pope Gregory IX in 1228, just two years after his death.