Leonhard Euler

Leonhard Euler was born to Paul Euler, a pastor, and Marguerite Brucker in Basel, Switzerland. He was the eldest of four children and grew up in a religious and intellectual household.

At the age of 13, Euler began his studies at the University of Basel, where he was introduced to advanced mathematics under the tutelage of Johann Bernoulli. His precocious talent was quickly recognized.

Euler earned his Master of Philosophy from the University of Basel at the age of 16. His thesis compared the philosophies of Descartes and Newton, showcasing his early analytical skills.

Euler accepted a position at the Imperial Russian Academy of Sciences in St. Petersburg, where he would work and make significant contributions to mathematics and science over the next several years.

Euler solved the Basel problem, a famous question in number theory, by finding the exact sum of the reciprocals of the squares of the natural numbers. This achievement solidified his reputation as a leading mathematician.

Euler published 'Mechanica,' a foundational work in the field of mechanics, which laid the groundwork for modern analytical mechanics and introduced many concepts still used today.

Euler moved to Berlin to take a position at the Prussian Academy of Sciences, where he would work for the next 25 years. He continued his prolific research and writing, contributing to various fields of mathematics and science.

Euler was elected President of the Prussian Academy of Sciences, a position that reflected his significant influence and contributions to the scientific community. He continued to publish extensively during this period.

Euler returned to St. Petersburg, Russia, to resume his position at the Imperial Russian Academy of Sciences. Despite losing his sight, he continued to produce groundbreaking work with the help of his assistants.

Euler published 'Elements of Algebra,' a comprehensive textbook that became a standard reference for algebraic concepts and methods. His clear and systematic approach made the subject accessible to a broader audience.

Leonhard Euler died in St. Petersburg, Russia, after a lifetime of groundbreaking contributions to mathematics, physics, and other sciences. His legacy as one of the greatest mathematicians in history remains unparalleled.