Steven Spielberg is an American filmmaker and producer widely recognized as one of the most influential directors in the history of cinema. Born on December 18, 1946 in Cincinnati, Ohio, Spielberg developed an early interest in filmmaking and began making amateur movies as a child. He attended California State University and later transferred to the University of Southern California's School of Cinematic Arts, where he directed his first short film, Amblin, which earned him critical acclaim. Spielberg's breakthrough as a filmmaker came in 1975, with the release of the film Jaws, which became one of the most successful and revolutionary films of all time. Over the course of his career, Spielberg has directed numerous blockbuster hits, including Close Encounters of the Third Kind, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Jurassic Park, and Saving Private Ryan. Spielberg's work has earned him numerous accolades, including three Academy Awards for Best Director, and his films have grossed more than $10 billion worldwide, making him one of the highest-grossing directors of all time. In addition to his filmmaking career, Spielberg has also been involved in philanthropic work, including his establishment of the Shoah Foundation in 1994, which is dedicated to preserving the testimonies of Holocaust survivors via recorded interviews. His work has had a profound impact on the film industry and popular culture, with his films often exploring themes of humanity, identity, and social issues. As one of the most renowned and respected filmmakers of all time, Steven Spielberg's work continues to captivate and inspire audiences around the world.