Georg Cantor

Date of Birth: March 3, 1845

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: January 6, 1918

Biography

Georg Ferdinand Ludwig Philipp Cantor was a groundbreaking German mathematician who is best known for creating set theory and introducing the concept of infinite numbers with his theory of transfinite numbers. Born in 1845, Cantor’s work laid the foundation for much of modern mathematics, despite initially facing significant opposition from his contemporaries. He spent the majority of his academic career at the University of Halle, where he developed his revolutionary ideas on the nature of infinity and numbers. Cantor’s theories were controversial and provoked intense debate among mathematicians, but they were eventually recognized as profoundly important contributions to the field. His work influenced not only mathematics but also philosophy and logic. In his later years, Cantor struggled with mental health issues, which some speculate were exacerbated by the stress of defending his theories. He passed away in 1918, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence mathematics to this day.

5 Interesting Facts about Georg Cantor

1. Georg Cantor was born in Saint Petersburg, Russia, but his family moved to Germany when he was 11.

2. He introduced the concept of different sizes of infinity, a groundbreaking idea in mathematics.

3. Cantor’s work was initially criticized by many of his contemporaries, including the famous mathematician Henri Poincaré.

4. He was also a talented violinist and considered pursuing a career in music before turning to mathematics.

5. Cantor had a deep interest in philosophy and theology, and he believed his work on infinity had profound philosophical implications.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Georg Cantor

1. “The essence of mathematics lies in its freedom.”

2. “In mathematics, the art of proposing a question must be held of higher value than solving it.”

3. “I see it, but I do not believe it.”

4. “The fear of infinity is a form of myopia that destroys the possibility of seeing the actual infinite, even though it in its highest form has created and sustains us.”

5. “A set is a Many that allows itself to be thought of as a One.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Georg Cantor did not achieve significant financial wealth from his work in mathematics. His highest net worth is not well documented, but his financial situation was modest, and he lived a relatively simple life.

Children

Georg Cantor had six children with his wife, Vally Guttmann. Their names were: 1. Richard Cantor 2. Ernst Cantor 3. Georg Cantor Jr. 4. Ludwig Cantor 5. Rudolph Cantor 6. Vally Cantor