Zerah Colburn was a child math prodigy who became known as the mental calculator for his incredible ability to multiply numbers in his head. Born on January 9, 1804 in Vermont, his unique talents would later bring him fame and recognition in the world of mathematics.
Colburn's early years were marked by a misunderstanding of his abilities. His parents initially believed he was mentally retarded due to his quiet demeanor and lack of academic progress. It wasn't until he turned seven that his true talent for mental calculations became apparent.
By the age of eight, Colburn was able to multiply numbers such as 13 and 97 together in his head with lightning speed. His remarkable skills soon caught the attention of those around him, including his father who saw an opportunity to profit from his son's gift.
Colburn's abilities quickly gained him fame as the mental calculator. He was able to perform complex mathematical calculations in his head faster than most people could with pen and paper. His talents were put on display at various events and exhibitions, where he would dazzle audiences with his feats of mental arithmetic.
One of the most impressive demonstrations of Colburn's abilities was when he was offered a full scholarship to Dartmouth College, where he would follow in the footsteps of renowned mathematician Earl Blaik. However, his father saw the potential for greater financial gain and declined the offer, choosing to continue exploiting his son's talents for profit.
Despite his early success, Colburn's abilities began to decline as he entered adulthood. The mental prowess that had once made him famous began to fade, leaving him unable to perform the remarkable calculations that had once come so effortlessly to him. He spent the latter part of his life out of the public eye, living a quiet existence far removed from the world of mathematics and fame.
Colburn's legacy lives on through his nephew, Zerah Colburn II, who followed in his uncle's footsteps as a mathematician. Though his own talents may have waned over time, Zerah Colburn remains an enduring figure in the history of mental calculations and mathematical prodigies.