George Boole

Date of Birth: November 2, 1815

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: December 8, 1864

Biography

George Boole was an influential English mathematician, philosopher, and logician, best known as the founder of Boolean algebra. Born in Lincoln, England, Boole grew up in a working-class family and displayed an early aptitude for mathematics and languages. Despite limited formal education, he self-taught various subjects, including classical languages and advanced mathematics. In 1849, Boole was appointed as the first professor of mathematics at Queen’s College, Cork (now University College Cork) in Ireland. His seminal work, “An Investigation of the Laws of Thought” (1854), laid the groundwork for Boolean algebra, a field that has become fundamental to computer science, electrical engineering, and various branches of mathematics. Boole’s contributions extend beyond Boolean algebra; he made significant strides in differential equations and probability theory. His work was recognized and celebrated in his lifetime, and his legacy continues to impact modern technology and logic.

5 Interesting Facts about George Boole

1. George Boole was largely self-taught in mathematics, having received only basic schooling.

2. He was awarded the Royal Society’s first Gold Medal for Mathematics in 1844.

3. Boole’s work in logic and algebra laid the groundwork for the digital revolution and the development of computer science.

4. He was deeply influenced by the works of Isaac Newton, Joseph Fourier, and Pierre-Simon Laplace.

5. Boole suffered from a severe lung infection, which led to his untimely death at the age of 49.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from George Boole

1. “No matter how high we climb in the pursuit of knowledge we shall still see heights above us.”

2. “That which is static and repetitive is boring. That which is dynamic and random is confusing. In between lies art.”

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

4. “Mathematical Analysis is as extensive as nature itself; it defines all perceptible relations, measures times, spaces, forces, temperatures:—it is Philosophy.”

5. “A real truth and a just principle can be applied to all.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

During his lifetime, George Boole did not amass significant wealth. While his contributions were groundbreaking, they did not translate into substantial financial gains. His highest net worth is not well-documented, but it is known that he lived modestly.

Children

George Boole had five daughters with his wife Mary Everest Boole: 1. Mary Ellen Boole 2. Margaret Boole 3. Alicia Boole Stott (who became a notable mathematician herself) 4. Lucy Everest Boole (who became a chemist) 5. Ethel Lilian Boole (who became a writer)