Sir Isaac Newton, born on December 25, 1642, in Woolsthorpe-by-Colsterworth, Lincolnshire, England, was one of the most influential scientists in history. He is widely recognized for his contributions to physics, mathematics, and astronomy, shaping the course of modern science.
Newton was born prematurely and his father had died three months before his birth. His mother remarried when he was three, leaving him in the care of his grandmother. He attended The King's School, Grantham where his interest in mechanics and science was kindled. In 1661, Newton entered Trinity College, Cambridge. There, he studied the works of René Descartes, Johannes Kepler, and other contemporary scientists, which deeply influenced his later work.
Newton served as a member of Parliament of England and was appointed as the Warden and later Master of the Royal Mint. His efforts in this role helped to bring England off the silver standard and onto the gold standard. He was knighted by Queen Anne in 1705, becoming Sir Isaac Newton.
Newton's work had a profound impact on scientific thought, leading to the Enlightenment and the scientific revolution. His laws of motion and gravitation are still fundamental to our understanding of physics. He died on March 20, 1727, in London and was buried in Westminster Abbey.