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The Greatest Minds in History

Since the dawn of human civilization, history has witnessed the emergence of some truly great minds who have left behind an indelible mark. Outstanding figures across the fields of science, mathematics, philosophy, art, and literature have enriched human history in myriad ways. While some of these great minds have simplified our lives by developing useful technology, some others have contributed to medical science, enabling us to live healthier lives. And we also have to credit the great philosophical minds for helping us seek answers to questions about life. Check out our list of the greatest minds in history.

1. Nikola Tesla

Nikola Tesla
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Birthday: 10 July 1856
Born In: Smiljan, Croatia
Sun Sign: Cancer
Died On: 07 January 1943
Famous As: Inventor, Engineer & Futurist, Who Obtained Over 300 Patents
Inventor and engineer Nikola Tesla is best known for his contributions to the development of the modern alternating current (AC) electricity supply system. With around 300 patents worldwide for his inventions, he was a highly prolific inventor. He never cared for recognition and didn’t get many of his inventions patented.

2. Archimedes

Archimedes
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Birthday: 287
Born In: Syracuse, Italy
Died On: 212
Famous As: One of the Leading Scientists in Classical Antiquity and the Greatest Mathematician of Ancient History
Regarded as one of the leading scientists in classical antiquity, Archimedes was a Greek mathematician, physicist, and engineer. As a mathematician, he anticipated modern calculus and analysis and derived an accurate approximation of pi. Also an inventor, he designed his screw pump and compound pulleys.

3. Michael Faraday

Michael Faraday
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Birthday: 22 September 1791
Born In: Newington Butts, London, United Kingdom
Sun Sign: Virgo
Died On: 05 August 1867
Famous As: English Scientist Who Contributed to the Study of Electromagnetism and Electrochemistry
English scientist Michael Faraday is known for his contributions to the study of electromagnetism and electrochemistry. He discovered the principles underlying electromagnetic induction, diamagnetism, and electrolysis. He is counted as one of the most influential scientists in history. Albert Einstein is said to have been deeply inspired by Faraday.

4. Isaac Newton

Isaac Newton
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Birthday: 04 January 1643
Born In: Lincolnshire, England
Sun Sign: Capricorn
Died On: 31 March 1727
Famous As: One of the Most Influential Scientists of All Time
English mathematician, physicist, and astronomer Isaac Newton is widely regarded as one of the most influential scientists of all time. He was a key figure in the scientific revolution. He formulated the laws of motion and universal gravitation and also played a major role in the development of the infinitesimal calculus.

5. Leonardo da Vinci

Leonardo da Vinci
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Birthday: 15 April 1452
Born In: Anchiano, Italy
Sun Sign: Aries
Died On: 02 May 1519
Famous As: Italian Polymath & Artist Known for His Paintings: ‘Mona Lisa’, ‘The Last Supper’ and ‘Virgin of the Rocks’
An Italian polymath who lived during the Renaissance, Leonardo da Vinci remains a much-revered figure to date owing to his contributions to the fields of science, technology, and art. He is best known for painting Mona Lisa, the most popular portrait ever made.