John Graunt was a pivotal figure in the development of statistics and demography. Born in 1620 in London, England, he made significant contributions to these fields during the 17th century, a time when scientific methodologies were beginning to take shape.
John Graunt was the son of Henry Graunt, a Haberdasher. Following in his father's footsteps, John also became a haberdasher by trade. His early life was marked by the typical activities of a merchant in London, but his curiosity and analytical mind led him into more scholarly pursuits.
Graunt's most renowned work is "Natural and Political Observations Made Upon the Bills of Mortality," published in 1662. This work was groundbreaking for several reasons:
Graunt's work caught the attention of influential figures like William Petty, who became his friend and collaborator. In 1662, Graunt was elected as a fellow of the Royal Society, an honor that highlighted the scientific community's recognition of his contributions. His work influenced many scientists and scholars, including:
Despite his contributions, Graunt's later life was marked by financial difficulties, possibly due to his involvement in speculative ventures. He died in 1674, leaving behind a legacy that would continue to influence the fields of statistics, demography, and public health.