1707-1751

English engineer and mathematician esteemed for his work on the laws of motion and military engineering. Robins's primary mathematical significance, however, involves his support of Newton's differential calculus against Newton's detractors. In addition, using his knowledge of mechanics and calculus, Robins helped develop methods for determining projectile velocities and ranges, in part through his development of the ballistic pendulum. Robins died in India while helping to make plans for the defense of Madras against invading armies.