Mihailo Petrović Alas (July 6, 1868 – June 8, 1943) was a Serbian mathematician, physicist, and inventor. He made significant contributions to the fields of mathematics and engineering, particularly in the areas of differential equations, mathematical analysis, and inventions related to telegraphy. Here is a detailed biography of Mihailo Petrović Alas:
Early Life and Education (1868–1890):
- Birth and Family: Mihailo Petrović Alas was born on July 6, 1868, in Belgrade, Serbia, which was then part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. He came from a prominent family; his father was a politician and his mother a well-educated woman.
- Education in Belgrade: Petrović Alas attended the First Belgrade Gymnasium and later enrolled at the Grandes écoles in Paris, where he studied physics and mathematics.
Academic Career (1890–1896):
- Doctoral Studies: Petrović Alas pursued doctoral studies at the Sorbonne in Paris, focusing on mathematical analysis and the theory of functions.
- Doctoral Dissertation: In 1896, he defended his doctoral dissertation titled “On the System of Differential Equations of Mathematical Physics.”
Career in Serbia (1896–1943):
- University Professor: Petrović Alas returned to Serbia and became a professor at the University of Belgrade. He played a crucial role in the development of mathematical education and research in the country.
- Mathematical Contributions: Petrović Alas made significant contributions to the theory of differential equations, mathematical analysis, and mathematical physics. His work included studies on boundary value problems and the application of mathematical methods in physics.
- Inventions: Apart from his contributions to mathematics, Petrović Alas was an inventor. He patented several inventions related to telegraphy, including a telegraph device that he developed in collaboration with his brother.
- Founder of the Mathematical Society: Petrović Alas was one of the founders of the Mathematical Society of Serbia in 1895, and he served as its president for many years.
Political Involvement (Early 20th Century):
- Political Activism: Petrović Alas was also involved in political activities and advocated for political and social reforms. He was a member of the People’s Radical Party and served in various public capacities.
- World War I: During World War I, he participated in relief efforts and served as a representative of the Serbian government in London.
Later Years and Death (1943):
- Death: Mihailo Petrović Alas passed away on June 8, 1943, in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, at the age of 74.
- Legacy: Petrović Alas left a lasting legacy in Serbian mathematics and education. The Mathematical Society of Serbia established the annual Petrović Alas Award in his honor to recognize outstanding contributions to mathematics.
Mihailo Petrović Alas is remembered as a versatile scholar who made significant contributions to mathematics, physics, and engineering. His impact on the development of mathematics in Serbia, coupled with his inventions and political involvement, solidifies his place as a prominent figure in the history of Serbian science and academia.
