Franciscus Vieta
French mathematician and algebra pioneer

Born
1540
485 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1603
422 years ago — 63 years old
Category
Thinkers & Philosophers
Country
France
Links & References
A significant figure in the development of algebra, contributions to the field included the introduction of letters to represent known and unknown quantities in equations. Vieta's formulas provided connections between coefficients and roots of polynomials. His work laid groundwork for modern algebraic notation. Vieta published several influential works, among them 'In Artem Analyticam Isagoge'. His techniques were key in moving from rhetorical algebra to symbolic algebra.
Introduced algebraic notation using letters
Developed Vieta's formulas for polynomials
Other People Who Died on February 23rd
Edward Elgar
A prominent English composer, contributions include works that have become staples of the orchestral and choral repertoire. Significant compositions include the 'Enigma Variations', which showcases a theme with numerous variations, and the 'Pomp and Circumstance Marches', specifically the first march, which gained vast popularity and is often played at graduation ceremonies. Elgar also composed the 'Violin Concerto in B minor', noted for its depth and lyrical quality. Alongside composition, involvement in education as an academic strengthened the field of music.
Continue ReadingJames Aldridge
Worked as a journalist and author, producing several influential works. Wrote 'The Sea and the Jungle' which reflects experiences in the Amazon rainforest. Contributed articles to various publications, providing insight into issues ranging from war to culture. A significant figure in the literary world, highlighted the relationship between nature and humanity.
Continue ReadingErnest Dowson
An English poet, novelist, and short story writer, contributed significantly to late Victorian literature. Notable for the poem "Non Sum Qualis Eram Bonae sub Regno Cynarae," which reflects themes of love and loss. His literary style combined influences from Romanticism and Decadence, often featuring melancholic and introspective themes. Dowson also wrote novels and prose works, including 'Mrs. Gming on,' although poetry remains the primary focus of his legacy. He was a member of the Rhymers' Club, which promoted new poetry during the late 19th century.
Continue ReadingJames Herriot
Worked as a veterinarian in Yorkshire, England, and wrote under the pseudonym James Herriot. Authored a series of books detailing experiences in veterinary practice, blending humor and compassion. 'All Creatures Great and Small', first published in 1972, introduced readers to the challenges and joys of rural veterinary life. The series was adapted into a television show and a film, further popularizing the stories and themes presented in the books. Contributed to animal welfare discussions through his writing and public speaking.
Continue ReadingJohn Keats
This poet contributed significantly to English literature during the Romantic period. His work featured themes of beauty, nature, and mortality. Prominent works include 'Ode to a Nightingale', 'Ode on a Grecian Urn', and 'Endymion'. Keats's poetry is characterized by vivid imagery and lyrical quality that have influenced many poets after him. The poet struggled with illness throughout his life and died at a young age, but left behind a lasting legacy in the world of poetry.
Continue ReadingAndrea Cesalpino
A prominent philosopher and physician, contributed significantly to the field of botany. Established a system of classification for plants that incorporated an analysis of both their form and their functions. Wrote 'De Plantis', which is regarded as one of the first modern botanical texts, laying groundwork for future botanical classification systems. Engaged in empirical observation and experimentation that influenced subsequent scientific inquiry.
Continue Reading