Joseph Priestley: Clergyman, Philosopher, and Chemist Early Life:Joseph Priestley was born on March 13, 1733, in Fieldhead, Birstall, West Yorkshire, England. He was the eldest of six children born to Jonas Priestley, a wool cloth-dresser, and his wife, Mary Swift. Priestley’s early education was in local schools, and he showed an early aptitude for learning… Continue reading Biography of Famous Scientist Joseph Priestley