A Brilliant Brain

Mary Somerville

1780–1872 — Scotland

Era: Modern

Brilliance: 8/10 | Stewardship: 7/10 | Composite Index: 56

The word 'scientist' was coined to describe her.

"I was conscious that I had never made a discovery myself, but I felt that I had simplified and connected."

Biography

Selftaught mathematician and scientist. The word 'scientist' was coined to describe her. Translated and expanded Laplace's work, making it accessible.

Key Facts

  • Word 'scientist' coined for her
  • Self-taught mathematician
  • Translated and expanded Laplace
  • First women Fellow of RAS
  • Somerville College Oxford named for her

They didn't have a word for what she was. So they invented one.

Total BrainCoins: 0

Cast BrainCoins for Mary Somerville