Francesco Petrarca, commonly known as Petrarch, was an Italian scholar, poet, and humanist who lived during the 14th century. He is often referred to as the "Father of Humanism" due to his significant contributions to the revival of classical literature and thought during the Renaissance. Petrarch is best known for his poetry, particularly his sonnets, which had a profound influence on the development of Italian literature. He also wrote numerous letters, essays, and other works that explored a wide range of topics, including philosophy, history, and politics. Petrarch's intellectual pursuits and his emphasis on the importance of individualism and the study of classical texts had a lasting impact on the cultural and intellectual movements of his time and beyond.