Girolamo Cardano, Italian mathematician
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Girolamo Cardano, Italian mathematician
Girolamo Cardano (1501-1576), Italian mathematician. Cardano was born the illegitimate son of a lawyer in Pavia. In 1520 he entered the University of Pavia, then moved to Padua to study medicine. His career was slow to start due to his illegitimate birth, but he did build a considerable reputation. In his spare time he worked on mathematics. In the 1545 book Ars Magna he published solutions to the cubic and quartic equations and posited the idea of imaginary numbers. In later works he introduced the idea of binomial coefficients and the binomial theorem. His work on probability resulted from his considerable skill as a gambler. As an inventor he created the combination lock. He was accused of heresy in 1570 for having cast the horoscope of Jesus, but was released after a few months in prison. This woodcut comes from van Opmeers Opus chronographicum orbis universi of Antwerp, 1611
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Media ID 6296951
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1500s 16th Century Algebra Ars Magna Binomial Theorem Cubic Physician Physicist Solution Vertical Wood Cut Gambler Mono Chrome
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases Girolamo Cardano, a renowned Italian mathematician whose brilliance transcended his challenging beginnings. Born in 1501 as the illegitimate son of a lawyer in Pavia, Cardano faced initial obstacles due to his birth status. However, he persevered and went on to establish an impressive reputation in various fields. Cardano's journey began at the University of Pavia in 1520 before he moved to Padua to pursue medicine. While his career progressed slowly, he dedicated his spare time to mathematics, ultimately making groundbreaking contributions that would shape the field for centuries to come. In 1545, Cardano published "Ars Magna" a seminal work where he presented solutions for cubic and quartic equations while introducing the concept of imaginary numbers. His later works introduced binomial coefficients and the binomial theorem. Interestingly enough, Cardano's expertise in probability stemmed from his skill as a gambler. Beyond mathematics, Cardano displayed inventiveness by creating the combination lock—an invention that showcased both his intellect and practicality. Despite achieving great success throughout his life, Cardano faced controversy when accused of heresy in 1570 for casting Jesus' horoscope. Although imprisoned briefly during this period, he was eventually released. This woodcut image from van Opmeers Opus chronographicum orbis universi (1611) provides us with a glimpse into the remarkable mind and accomplishments of Girolamo Cardano—a true luminary who left an indelible mark on algebraic theory and mathematical thought during the vibrant era of Renaissance Italy.
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