35 Facts About Mary Somerville

Early Life and Education

Mary Somerville's journey began in a time when women's education was not prioritized. Despite societal constraints, she pursued knowledge with relentless determination.

1. Born on December 26, 1780, in Jedburgh, Scotland, Mary Fairfax (later Somerville) grew up in a modest household.
2. Her father, Vice-Admiral Sir William George Fairfax, was often away at sea, leaving her mother to manage the household.
3. Initially, Mary received little formal education, learning basic reading and writing at a local school.
4. At age 10, she was sent to a boarding school in Musselburgh, where she learned needlework and basic arithmetic.
5. Mary’s passion for learning was ignited when she discovered algebra in a fashion magazine.

Breakthrough in Mathematics

Mary Somerville's contributions to mathematics were groundbreaking, especially considering the era's gender norms.

6. She taught herself advanced mathematics by studying Euclid's "Elements" and Isaac Newton's "Principia."
7. In 1826, she published her first scientific paper on the magnetic properties of violet rays, which earned her recognition.
8. Her book "Mechanism of the Heavens" (1831) translated and expanded upon Pierre-Simon Laplace's work, making complex ideas accessible.
9. This book was used as a textbook at the University of Cambridge, a rare honor for a female author at the time.
10. Mary was awarded a silver medal by the Royal Astronomical Society for her contributions.

Contributions to Astronomy

Mary Somerville's work extended beyond mathematics into the realm of astronomy, where she made significant strides.

11. She predicted the existence of Neptune through her calculations, although the planet was officially discovered by others.
12. Her book "On the Connexion of the Physical Sciences" (1834) was one of the first to discuss the interconnectedness of different scientific disciplines.
13. This book went through numerous editions and was translated into several languages, influencing scientists worldwide.
14. Mary’s work helped popularize the term "scientist," which was coined during her lifetime.
15. She was elected to the Royal Astronomical Society in 1835, alongside Caroline Herschel, marking the first time women were admitted.

Advocacy for Women's Education

Mary Somerville was not just a scientist; she was also a staunch advocate for women's education and rights.

16. She believed that women should have the same educational opportunities as men.
17. Mary supported the establishment of Girton College, Cambridge, the first residential college for women in England.
18. She was a member of the General Committee of the Ladies' Petition, which sought to allow women to attend university lectures.
19. Her autobiography, published posthumously, highlighted the struggles and triumphs of women in science.
20. Mary’s legacy inspired future generations of women scientists, including Ada Lovelace and Florence Nightingale.

Later Life and Legacy

Mary Somerville's later years were marked by continued intellectual activity and recognition of her contributions.

21. She moved to Italy in 1838, where she continued her scientific work and corresponded with leading scientists.
22. In 1869, she published "Physical Geography," a comprehensive work that remained a standard textbook for decades.
23. Mary received a civil pension from the British government in recognition of her scientific achievements.
24. She was awarded the Victoria Medal by the Royal Geographical Society in 1869.
25. Mary Somerville died on November 29, 1872, in Naples, Italy, at the age of 91.

Honors and Memorials

Mary Somerville's contributions have been honored in various ways, ensuring her legacy endures.

26. Somerville College, Oxford, founded in 1879, was named in her honor.
27. A lunar crater, Somerville, was named after her, recognizing her contributions to astronomy.
28. The Mary Somerville Medal and Prize, awarded by the Institute of Physics, celebrates outstanding contributions to physics.
29. Her portrait hangs in the National Portrait Gallery in London, a testament to her lasting impact.
30. In 2016, she was featured on the Royal Bank of Scotland's £10 note, celebrating her legacy.

Interesting Tidbits

Beyond her scientific achievements, Mary Somerville's life was filled with fascinating anecdotes and lesser-known facts.

31. She was fluent in several languages, including Latin, Greek, French, and Italian.
32. Mary was an accomplished artist, often sketching landscapes and botanical illustrations.
33. She maintained a lifelong friendship with Ada Lovelace, the world's first computer programmer.
34. Mary was a devout Christian, believing that science and religion were not mutually exclusive.
35. Her epitaph reads, "Mary Somerville, who died in 1872, was a mathematician and scientist of the highest order."

Mary Somerville's Legacy

Mary Somerville's contributions to science and mathematics left an indelible mark. Her work in astronomy, mathematics, and physics paved the way for future generations of scientists. She translated and expanded on Pierre-Simon Laplace's work, making complex ideas accessible. Her book, "On the Connexion of the Physical Sciences," was a bestseller and influenced many.

Somerville's advocacy for women's education and her role as a founding member of the Royal Astronomical Society showcased her dedication to progress. Her name lives on through the Somerville College at Oxford and the Somerville crater on the Moon.

Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and curiosity. Mary Somerville broke barriers and inspired countless individuals. Her legacy continues to inspire those passionate about science and education.