Steven Weinberg was born on May 3, 1933, in New York City, NY. His father, Frederick, worked as a court stenographer, and his mother, Eva, was a housewife. Both of his parents were Jewish immigrants, and they instilled in him a love of learning from a young age.
At the age of 16, Weinberg's interest in science was piqued when he was given a chemistry set as a gift. He attended Bronx High School of Science, where he excelled in his studies. He went on to earn his B.A. from Cornell University and his Ph.D. from Princeton University.
After receiving his Ph.D., Weinberg did postdoctoral research at Columbia University. It was during this time that he began to make a name for himself in the field of theoretical physics. His work on physical cosmology and elementary particles garnered him numerous awards and accolades.
In 1991, Weinberg was awarded The National Medal of Science for his contributions to the field of physics. Throughout his career, he was elected to prestigious institutions such as the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, the U.S. National Academy of Sciences, and Britain's Royal Society.
In 1954, Weinberg married Louise Weinberg, who later became a law professor. Together, they had a daughter named Elizabeth. Weinberg's personal and professional lives intertwined, as his wife's career in law complemented his own in physics.
In the world of physics, Steven Weinberg will always be remembered as a giant whose contributions paved the way for future discoveries. His brilliance, dedication, and passion for knowledge will continue to inspire scientists around the world for years to come.
Steven Weinberg passed away on July 23, 2020, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come.