Biography of Famous Mathematicians William Oughtred
William Oughtred: Mathematician and Inventor of the Slide Rule
Early Life:
William Oughtred was born on March 5, 1574, in Eton, Buckinghamshire, England. Little is known about his early childhood and education. However, it is believed that he received his education at King’s School, Canterbury, and later attended Emmanuel College, Cambridge. Oughtred showed an early aptitude for mathematics, which would eventually lead him to become a significant figure in the history of mathematical instruments.
Career and Teaching:
After completing his education, Oughtred became a lecturer at Albury, Surrey. He also held the position of a curate at the local church. During this time, Oughtred started developing an interest in mathematical instruments and their applications.
In 1622, Oughtred published his first significant work, “The Circles of Proportion and the Horizontal Instrument.” The book dealt with various mathematical concepts, including his innovations in trigonometry and the use of a circular slide rule. Oughtred’s work gained attention and praise, establishing his reputation as a skilled mathematician.
Invention of the Slide Rule:
One of Oughtred’s most enduring contributions to mathematics was his invention of the slide rule. While the exact date of its invention is uncertain, it is believed that Oughtred began working on the concept in the early 1620s. The slide rule is a mechanical device used for performing mathematical calculations, particularly in multiplication and division, trigonometry, and logarithms.
Oughtred’s design involved two logarithmic scales mounted parallel to each other, and the sliding component enabled users to perform calculations by aligning numbers on the scales. The slide rule became an essential tool for scientists, engineers, and mathematicians for several centuries.
Teaching and Influence:
William Oughtred was not only an inventor but also a dedicated teacher. He tutored many students, including notable mathematicians and scientists like Sir Christopher Wren, John Wallis, and Seth Ward. His teaching methods and contributions to mathematical education played a crucial role in the development of mathematical thought during the 17th century.
Later Life and Legacy:
Oughtred continued his work in mathematics and instrument-making throughout his life. He corresponded with other scholars of his time, sharing ideas and insights. In 1631, he published “Mathematical Recreations,” a collection of problems and solutions intended for educational purposes.
William Oughtred died on June 30, 1660, in Albury, Surrey, at the age of 86. His legacy lives on through the enduring impact of the slide rule, which remained in widespread use until the advent of electronic calculators in the 20th century. Oughtred’s contributions to the development of mathematical instruments and his influence as a teacher have left an indelible mark on the history of mathematics.