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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