Sir Isaac Newton (1643–1727) was an English mathematician, physicist, astronomer, and one of the most influential scientists of all time. His work laid the foundation for classical mechanics and significantly advanced our understanding of the natural world. Newton's Philosophiæ Naturalis Principia Mathematica (1687), commonly known as the Principia, formulated the laws of motion and universal gravitation, explaining planetary orbits and the principles of forces that govern motion on Earth and in space.
Newton also made profound contributions to mathematics, notably developing calculus (independently around the same time as Leibniz) and advancements in algebra. In optics, he conducted experiments with prisms to demonstrate that white light is composed of the colors of the spectrum, leading to the theory of color.
Beyond his scientific work, Newton also served as the Warden and later Master of the Royal Mint, where he implemented reforms against counterfeiting. His genius, methodical rigor, and far-reaching ideas established him as a central figure of the Scientific Revolution, influencing science, mathematics, and philosophy for centuries.
