# Isaac, Newton

## Biography

Sir Isaac Newton, born in Woolsthorpe, England, in 1642, rose from humble beginnings to become one of history’s most influential scientists and thinkers. A solitary and brilliant student, he attended Trinity College, Cambridge, where he delved into mathematics and natural philosophy. During a period of self-imposed study away from plague-ridden Cambridge, Newton laid the groundwork for calculus, developed his theory of universal gravitation, and began extensive work on optics.

His seminal work, *Philosophiæ Naturalis Principia Mathematica*, published in 1687, established classical mechanics and his three laws of motion, profoundly shaping scientific understanding for centuries. He later explored the nature of light and color in his equally important book, *Opticks*. Beyond his scientific endeavors, Newton also dedicated himself to theological studies and served as Master of the Royal Mint. Knighted by Queen Anne in 1705, he continued to refine his ideas and influence intellectual discourse until his death in 1727.

## Books

- [Opticks: Or, A Treatise of the Reflections, Refractions, Inflections, and Colours of Light](https://samolit.com/books/96244)
- [Philosophiae Naturalis Principia Mathematica](https://samolit.com/books/95948)