The French mathematician Pierre Simon, Marquis de Laplace (1749-1827), made outstanding contributions to pure mathematics, probability theory, and dynamical astronomy.

Pierre Simon Laplace was born on March 23, 1749, at Beaumont-en-Auge in Normandy. Little is known of his early life, for when he became famous, he was disinclined to talk about his humble origin as the son of a farmer. Rich neighbors recognized the boy's talent and helped to secure his education, first in Caen and then at the military school in Beaumont. At the conclusion of his course, Laplace remained for a short time as a teacher. Desiring to further his studies in mathematics, however, he soon set out for Paris. He sent a letter concerning the general principles of mechanics to Jean d'Alembert, who responded immediately and invited Laplace to an interview. Through the efforts of D'Alembert, Laplace obtained a professorship of mathematics at the military school in...