A blog covering the history of STEM and how we got to where we are.
Daniel Bernoulli: The Mathematician Who Bridged Mathematics and Science Daniel Bernoulli (1700–1782) was a Swiss mathematician and physicist, widely regarded as one of the leading figures in the history of science. As a member of the renowned Bernoulli family, which produced several prominent mathematicians, Daniel carved his own legacy by blending mathematical theory with practical …
Bonaventura Cavalieri (1598–1647) was an Italian mathematician and a key figure in the early development of calculus and geometry. Known for his groundbreaking work in infinitesimal methods, Cavalieri’s ideas laid the groundwork for future mathematical advancements by Isaac Newton, Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz, and others. His contributions to mathematics and science are celebrated as milestones in …
Euclidean geometry is one of the cornerstones of mathematics, shaping our understanding of space, structure, and relationships between shapes. Originating in ancient Greece, this branch of geometry owes its name and foundation to the Greek mathematician Euclid, often referred to as the “Father of Geometry.” Euclid’s work, Elements, provided a systematic and logical framework for …
Hipparchus: The Father of Trigonometry Hipparchus of Nicaea (c. 190 BCE – c. 120 BCE) stands as one of the most influential figures in the history of mathematics and science. A Greek astronomer, mathematician, and geographer, Hipparchus made groundbreaking contributions that laid the foundation for many fields, particularly astronomy and trigonometry. His innovative methods and …
Apollonius of Perga: The Geometer Who Shaped Mathematics and Science Apollonius of Perga (circa 262 BCE – circa 190 BCE) stands as one of the most influential figures in the history of mathematics and science. Known primarily as “The Great Geometer,” his work on conic sections laid the foundation for numerous developments in mathematics, astronomy, …
The History of Logarithms Logarithms, a fundamental mathematical concept, have significantly shaped the development of mathematics, science, and technology. By transforming complex multiplications into simpler additions, logarithms revolutionized calculations and laid the groundwork for advances in astronomy, engineering, and physics. The Origins of Logarithms: Napier’s Insight The concept of logarithms was first introduced in the …
Plato: The Philosopher Who Shaped Mathematics and Science Plato (427–347 BCE), one of the most influential philosophers in history, is renowned for his profound impact on Western thought. His contributions extended beyond philosophy, deeply influencing mathematics, science, and education. Through his dialogues, his establishment of the Academy, and his philosophical principles, Plato laid critical groundwork …
Nicolaus Copernicus: Revolutionizing Science and Mathematics Nicolaus Copernicus (1473–1543) is one of history’s most transformative figures, renowned for his revolutionary heliocentric model of the solar system. This paradigm-shifting idea forever altered humanity’s understanding of the universe and laid the foundation for modern astronomy and physics. Beyond astronomy, Copernicus’s work had a profound impact on mathematics, …
Liu Xin: A Pioneer in Mathematics and Science in Ancient China Liu Xin (c. 50 BCE – 23 CE) was a prominent Chinese mathematician, astronomer, and scholar who lived during the Western Han dynasty. His intellectual achievements and contributions significantly influenced mathematics, astronomy, and the standardization of knowledge in ancient China. Liu Xin’s interdisciplinary expertise …
Leonard Eugene Dickson: A Pioneer in the History of Mathematics and Science Leonard Eugene Dickson (1874–1954) was an influential American mathematician who made groundbreaking contributions to the field of algebra, number theory, and the history of mathematics. His work laid the foundation for modern abstract algebra and number theory, and he was a trailblazer in …