Isaac Newton (1643-1727) was an English mathematician, physicist, and astronomer who is widely recognized as one of the most influential scientists in history.
He was born in Woolsthorpe, Lincolnshire, England, to a farming family, but his academic prowess earned him a place at Cambridge University, where he studied mathematics, physics, and philosophy.
Newton’s contributions to science and mathematics were numerous and groundbreaking, including his laws of motion and universal gravitation, calculus, and optics. He published his most famous work, “Philosophiae Naturalis Principia Mathematica” (Mathematical Principles of Natural Philosophy), in 1687, which laid the foundations for modern physics.
His immense impact on science led to his becoming a fellow of the Royal Society in 1672, and he went on to serve as its president from 1703-1727. He was also knighted by Queen Anne in 1705. Newton is often regarded as one of the most important figures of the scientific revolution and his work remains influential to this day.
