Ludwig von Mises (1881-1973) was an Austrian economist and a prominent figure in the Austrian School of economics. He is known for his defense of free-market capitalism and his influential works on economic theory, including "Human Action" and "Socialism." Von Mises emphasized the importance of individual choice and entrepreneurship in driving economic progress and warned of the dangers of government intervention in the economy. His ideas continue to shape economic thought and policy today, making him a key figure in the history of economics.