Alexander Grothendieck was a mathematician known for his work in algebraic geometry. Born in Germany in 1928, he spent much of his career in France. Grothendieck made significant contributions to mathematics, especially in the field of algebraic geometry, and his work had a profound impact on the development of modern mathematics. He was awarded the Fields Medal in 1966 for his contributions to algebraic geometry. Grothendieck's later life was marked by a retreat from mathematics and a reclusive lifestyle.