Francesco Petrarca, better known as Petrarch, was an Italian poet and scholar who lived in the 14th century. Considered one of the most important figures in the development of the Italian language, he is often regarded as the father of Italian Renaissance literature. Petrarch was also a major figure in the development of humanism, a philosophy that emphasized the importance of the individual and human achievement. Synonyms for Petrarch may include the "father of humanism," the "renaissance poet," the "father of the Italian language," and the "Roman poet." Regardless of the terminology used, Petrarch's legacy continues to inspire and influence scholars and writers around the world today.