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. 01Born on December 26, 1780, in Jedburgh, Scotland, Mary Fairfax (later Somerville) grew up in a modest household.
2. 02Her father, Vice-Admiral Sir William George Fairfax, was often away at sea, leaving her mother to manage the household.
3. 03Initially, Mary received little formal education, learning basic reading and writing at a local school.
4. 04At age 10, she was sent to a boarding school in Musselburgh, where she learned needlework and basic arithmetic.
5. 05Mary’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. 06She taught herself advanced mathematics by studying Euclid's "Elements" and Isaac Newton's "Principia."
7. 07In 1826, she published her first scientific paper on the magnetic properties of violet rays, which earned her recognition.
8. 08Her book "Mechanism of the Heavens" (1831) translated and expanded upon Pierre-Simon Laplace's work, making complex ideas accessible.
9. 09This book was used as a textbook at the University of Cambridge, a rare honor for a female author at the time.
10. 10Mary 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. 11She predicted the existence of Neptune through her calculations, although the planet was officially discovered by others.
12. 12Her book "On the Connexion of the Physical Sciences" (1834) was one of the first to discuss the interconnectedness of different scientific disciplines.
13. 13This book went through numerous editions and was translated into several languages, influencing scientists worldwide.
14. 14Mary’s work helped popularize the term "scientist," which was coined during her lifetime.
15. 15She 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. 16She believed that women should have the same educational opportunities as men.
17. 17Mary supported the establishment of Girton College, Cambridge, the first residential college for women in England.
18. 18She was a member of the General Committee of the Ladies' Petition, which sought to allow women to attend university lectures.
19. 19Her autobiography, published posthumously, highlighted the struggles and triumphs of women in science.
20. 20Mary’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. 21She moved to Italy in 1838, where she continued her scientific work and corresponded with leading scientists.
22. 22In 1869, she published "Physical Geography," a comprehensive work that remained a standard textbook for decades.
23. 23Mary received a civil pension from the British government in recognition of her scientific achievements.
24. 24She was awarded the Victoria Medal by the Royal Geographical Society in 1869.
25. 25Mary 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. 26Somerville College, Oxford, founded in 1879, was named in her honor.
27. 27A lunar crater, Somerville, was named after her, recognizing her contributions to astronomy.
28. 28The Mary Somerville Medal and Prize, awarded by the Institute of Physics, celebrates outstanding contributions to physics.
29. 29Her portrait hangs in the National Portrait Gallery in London, a testament to her lasting impact.
30. 30In 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. 31She was fluent in several languages, including Latin, Greek, French, and Italian.
32. 32Mary was an accomplished artist, often sketching landscapes and botanical illustrations.
33. 33She maintained a lifelong friendship with Ada Lovelace, the world's first computer programmer.
34. 34Mary was a devout Christian, believing that science and religion were not mutually exclusive.
35. 35Her 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.