On this day in 1642, the town of Woolsthorpe-by-Colsterworth in Lincolnshire, England, witnessed the birth of Isaac Newton, a man whose profound impact on the world of physics and mathematics transcends his era.
Newton was not just a scientist; he was also a philosopher and a prominent figure of the Enlightenment. His significant scientific contributions made him one of the most renowned figures in history, with his theories still influencing our understanding today.
Milestones in Newton's Life : Isaac Newton's genius elevated him to near-mythical status. Born into a humble family, his exceptional intelligence allowed him to formulate influential theories.
According to the Julian calendar, which was then in use in England, he was born prematurely, three months early, making him small and frail. His father passed away three months before his birth.
Despite these hardships, Newton grew up in his family home, displaying remarkable intellect and sharp wit, as noted in the Encyclopedia Britannica of Science and Knowledge.
A Life-Altering Shock : Newton's life took a significant turn when his mother remarried when he was just three years old, leaving him to be raised by his grandmother.
This experience profoundly affected his personality, making him a solitary and introspective child who harbored a strong dislike for his stepfather. Raised under the care of his uncle, who provided him with old books to learn from, Newton displayed ingenuity from a young age.
By the time he was five, he was already attempting to invent windmills. In 1653, after the death of his stepfather, Newton returned to live with his mother, though he never felt at ease with his half-siblings.
Newton attended school while living with the Clarke family, who hosted him due to the school’s proximity to their home. During this time, he learned about mixing medicines and herbs from the family pharmacist.
However, complaints from his school led his mother to withdraw him from education in 1659, intending for him to work as a farmer like his late father.
Unsuccessful in farming, his uncle intervened, enrolling him back in school. The school principal, Henry Stokes, persuaded Newton's mother to allow him to attend university.
Newton's Key Theories : In 1661, Newton entered the University of Cambridge in England, working as a servant to fund his studies. He ignored the university's curriculum, dedicating his efforts to physics and mathematics, and developed a particular interest in optics.
In 1665, the university temporarily closed due to the Black Plague pandemic. Isolated and inspired by the circumstances of the time, Newton's imagination soared, leading him to conceptualize the law of gravity. This moment is documented by William Stukeley in his book Memoirs of the Life of Sir Isaac Newton.
Newton went on to formulate the laws of motion, gravity, and the foundations of calculus. His contributions to science continued throughout his life until he passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 84, leaving behind a scientific legacy that remains the bedrock of modern science.
