Erik H. Erikson (1902–1994), a German-American developmental psychologist and psychoanalyst, was renowned for his work on human development despite never earning a bachelor’s degree. He taught at prestigious institutions like Yale, Harvard, and Berkeley. Erikson's influential book, "Identity and the Life Cycle" (1967), explores psychological growth across eight stages of life, highlighting the formation of identity. His groundbreaking ideas continue to shape modern psychology and developmental theory, making him a pivotal figure in the field.