Brook Taylor, an English mathematician, was born on August 18, 1685, in London, England. He grew up in Edmonton, a town located in the county of Middlesex. Taylor showed an early aptitude for mathematics and was encouraged by his family to pursue his studies in the field.
He attended St. John's College, Cambridge, where he had the opportunity to learn from esteemed mathematicians such as John Machin and John Keill. Under their mentorship, Taylor honed his skills and developed a deep passion for the subject.
One of Taylor's most significant contributions to mathematics was the development of calculus tools known as Taylor's theorem and Taylor series. These tools revolutionized the field, providing mathematicians with new ways to analyze and solve complex problems.
His work was highly praised by his peers, with Joseph-Louis Lagrange later describing it as "the main foundation of differential calculus." Taylor's innovative methods and groundbreaking discoveries had a lasting impact on the development of mathematics.
In 1712, Taylor was elected to the prestigious Royal Society, a fellowship of distinguished scientists and scholars. He later served as the society's secretary from 1714 to 1718, playing a key role in its activities and initiatives.
During his time at the Royal Society, Taylor sat on a committee that adjudicated the dispute between Sir Isaac Newton and Gottfried Leibniz over the invention of calculus. His expertise and impartiality were essential in resolving the conflict and preserving the integrity of the field.
Despite his professional success, Taylor faced tragedy in his personal life. In 1721, he married Miss Brydges of Wallington, Surrey, but both she and their son passed away shortly after the birth of the child. Devastated by the loss, Taylor remarried to Sabetta Sawbridge, who also tragically died in childbirth with their daughter Elizabeth.
Tragically, Taylor's own life was cut short at the age of 46 when he passed away in November 1731. His death was mourned by the scientific community, which recognized his immense contributions to the field of mathematics.
Brook Taylor may have left this world at a young age, but his legacy lives on through his pioneering work in calculus and his enduring impact on the field of mathematics. His contributions continue to inspire generations of mathematicians and scholars, ensuring that his name will be remembered for years to come.