Sir Isaac Newton (25 December 1642 – 20 March 1727) was an English mathematician, physicist, astronomer, and philosopher, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in science. His book Philosophiae Naturalis Principia Mathematica (1687) laid the foundation for classical mechanics, introducing the laws of motion and universal gravitation, which dominated scientific thought for centuries.
Born in Woolsthorpe, England, Newton studied at Cambridge University, where he developed calculus and conducted groundbreaking research in optics and planetary motion. He built the first reflecting telescope and demonstrated that white light is composed of different colors. His work in mathematics included contributions to calculus, power series, and the binomial theorem.
Newton later served as Warden and Master of the Royal Mint, improving British coinage. He was also President of the Royal Society and engaged in theological studies. Although his work in alchemy and biblical chronology remained unpublished during his lifetime, his scientific achievements shaped modern physics.
Newton died in 1727 and was buried in Westminster Abbey. His legacy endures as a pioneer of the Scientific Revolution, influencing countless scientists and establishing principles that remain fundamental to physics and mathematics.