Famous For: A physician who proposed the use of the equals sign in maths.
Biography: Arguably one of the Welshmen who had the greatest impact on the world, a groundbreaking physician and mathematician who practically established the English school of mathematics, introduced algebra to Britain and famously proposed the use of the equals sign in maths.
This year - 2008 - marks the 450th anniversary of the death of Robert Recorde a Pembrokeshire mathematician and doctor who is principally known as the inventor of the equals sign
He was a doctor, a teacher, and a civil servant, appointed as Head of the Royal Mint and Surveyor of Ireland's silver mines. He became involved in a libel case, fell into debt and died in prison in Southwark in 1558. Until recently, little else has been known about him.
Recent research has revealed more information about Recorde's background, what inspired his work and the influence of that work on the development of mathematics in Europe and beyond.
The conclusions of that research will be revealed at a special conference on 8-10 July when historians and mathematicians will come together to a University of Wales conference centre in mid-Wales.
Professor Gareth Roberts from Bangor University, one of the conference organisers, said "The link between language and mathematics is now seen as being of vital importance as young children begin to learn complex concepts. Recorde was ahead of his time in recognising the importance of language to explain and to instruct pupils. This conference will help us all to understand the central influence of this Welsh mathematics educator."
At first glance the story of this 16th century scholar looks to be one of remarkable success upon success. In 1531 he was made a fellow of All Souls College, Oxford, and went on to gain a medical degree from the University of Cambridge. Recorde was also a doctor to the Royal Family.
However, somewhere along the road events took an unfortunate turn for Recorde and he ended his life in 1558 in a debtor's prison.
Moment of Glory: Creating one of the most famous symbols in the world - the equals sign.
Off the Record: His unfortunate fate languishing in a debtor's prison.
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Peter Davies, London
There is a memorial to Recorde in Tenby's Church.
Mon Sep 1 12:59:16 2008
lilliana =
= i think he was clever l0l = :)
Mon Mar 6 17:19:49 2006
Rhia x
Very interesting man. I'm doing a project on him.
Tue Feb 7 11:57:28 2006
Angelica Gomez
He waz a good man.
Sat May 7 02:54:05 2005
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Where would we be without the equals sign? Which Welsh person do you think has had the greatest impact on modern life? Add your comments here.
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