André-Marie Ampère was born in Lyons, France, the son of a wealthy merchant. Ampère's education was determined by his father, Jean-Jacques, who followed Jean Jacques Rousseau's theories of education. Ampère was left to educate himself, as his inclinations dictated, among the books of his father's extensive library. At an early age Ampère discovered a talent for mathematics, working out the early books of Euclid by himself. On finding that some of the books he wished to consult in the library in Lyons were in Latin, he taught himself the language. Ampère's mother was a devout Catholic, who ensured he was thoroughly instructed in the faith.

Ampère's domestic life was beset with tragedy. In 1787 the French Revolution began; Jean-Jacques assumed the post of Juge de Paix, a role with considerable...