Joseph Fourier

Joseph Fourier was born to a tailor, Jacques Fourier, and his wife Marie. He lost both parents at a young age, which influenced his early education and career path.

Orphaned at a young age, Fourier was sent to the Military School of Auxerre, where he excelled in mathematics and showed a keen interest in the sciences.

Fourier briefly joined the Benedictine order in the Abbey of Saint-Benoît-sur-Loire, but his interest in mathematics and science led him to leave the order after a short period.

Fourier returned to the Military School of Auxerre as a teacher of mathematics, where he continued to develop his skills and began his research in mathematical analysis.

During the French Revolution, Fourier became involved in revolutionary activities, joining the local Revolutionary Committee and advocating for the principles of the Revolution.

Fourier was appointed to teach at the newly established École Normale Supérieure in Paris, where he further developed his mathematical theories and influenced many students.

Fourier accompanied Napoleon Bonaparte on his Egyptian Campaign, where he served as a scientific advisor and played a significant role in the establishment of the Institut d'Égypte.

Fourier published his groundbreaking work, 'Théorie analytique de la chaleur' (Analytical Theory of Heat), which introduced the concept of Fourier series and laid the foundation for modern heat transfer theory.

Fourier was elected to the prestigious French Academy of Sciences, recognizing his significant contributions to mathematics and physics, and solidifying his reputation as a leading scientist.

Fourier was appointed as the Permanent Secretary of the French Academy of Sciences, a position that allowed him to influence scientific research and policy in France.

Joseph Fourier died in Paris, leaving behind a legacy of significant contributions to mathematics and physics, particularly in the areas of heat transfer and Fourier analysis.