William Le Baron Jenney was an American architect and engineer, best known for his role in the development of the modern skyscraper. Born in 1832, he designed the Home Insurance Building in Chicago, completed in 1885, which is often considered the first true skyscraper due to its innovative use of a steel frame. Jenney's work laid the foundation for future architectural advancements and influenced many architects, including Louis Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright. His contributions to the field of architecture helped shape the skyline of American cities and established principles that are still used in building design today.