Gerardus Mercator

Flemish cartographer and mathematician

Gerardus Mercator - Flemish cartographer and mathematician
Born

March 5th, 1512
513 years ago

Died

December 2nd, 1594
430 years ago — 82 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Belgium

Links & References

Born in Flanders, this mathematician and cartographer developed a new method for representing the spherical earth on a flat surface. His 1569 world map introduced the Mercator projection, which became widely used in navigation due to its ability to represent lines of constant course. Apart from cartography, engaged in philosophical inquiry and mathematical studies that contributed to the fields of geography and navigation. The impact of this work extended beyond his lifetime, cementing a significant place in the history of map-making.

created the 1569 Mercator projection

published the first atlas titled 'Atlas' in 1595

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