Humankind has seen plenty of high achievers throughout its history. These noteworthy people have made an impact on the world and changed the course of history. Here are a few of the most remarkable minds in recorded history that have truly been an inspiration to the rest of us.
1. Aristotle
A prominent philosopher, scientist, and biologist of ancient Greece, Aristotle was a polymath in the purest sense. He is celebrated as one of the most influential thinkers throughout the history of Western philosophy and science. His uniqueness lies in the fact that he approached his study of the world by looking at how it works, rather than how it came to be. Aristotle contributed extensively to the fields of politics, biology, zoology, physics, metaphysics, logic, and ethics. He also wrote on music, poetics, rhetoric, and much more. In his own words, Aristotle said, “The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet.”
2. Nikola Tesla
Nikola Tesla is a name that is widely respected and renowned in the world of electrical engineering. He is best known for devising the alternating current (AC), a concept that completely revolutionized the way we use and store electricity today. Tesla was a true genius who thought ahead of his time. He was also an innovator in the field of wireless communication, robotics, and even introducing the idea of a death ray (yes, he did plan on inventing that!). In his own words, Tesla said, “If you want to find the secrets of the universe, think in terms of energy, frequency and vibration.”
3. Isaac Newton
No list of brilliant minds would be complete without mentioning Sir Isaac Newton. A renowned scientist and mathematician, Newton is credited with discovering the law of gravity and formulating the three laws of motion. His work played a major role in the scientific revolution, and is still relevant today. Newton famously said, “If I have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” His renowned contributions to science, mathematics, and astronomy have made him one of the most iconic scientists of all time.
4. Marie Curie
Marie Curie was a physicist and chemist from Poland who is regarded as one of the greatest scientists in history. She was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, and only person to win it in two different sciences. Curie’s groundbreaking work in the field of radioactive substances led to the discovery of elements like polonium and radium, and she was an early pioneer of radiation therapy for cancer treatment. Curie famously said, “Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less.”
5. Leonardo da Vinci
A true Renaissance man, Leonardo da Vinci was an inventor and painter whose accomplishments are, quite literally, legendary. His works of art, such as the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper are famous around the world. But Leonardo is also renowned for his technological achievements as well as his paintings. He was a talented and creative thinker who had a particular interest in anatomy, engineering, and military tactics. Da Vinci famously said, “I have been impressed with the urgency of doing. Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Being willing is not enough; we must do.”
6. Galileo Galilei
Galileo was an Italian scientist who is credited with discovering some of the most fundamental truths regarding the universe. He was a polymath who made observations from the telescope he invented, and is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures of the scientific revolution. He formulated the principle of inertia, and helped prove the Copernican theory, which states that the Earth revolves around the Sun, rather than the other way around. Galileo said, “You cannot teach a man anything, you can only help him find it within himself.”
7. Albert Einstein
Widely regarded as one of the most brilliant minds of modern times, Albert Einstein is celebrated for his work in physics, particularly his Theory of Relativity, and for making the world of science accessible to everyone. He is also well-known for his famous quote, “Imagination is more important than knowledge.” Einstein’s contribution to the world of science is incalculable, and his influence is still felt today.
These are just a few of the brightest minds in our history. Each one of these thinkers has left a lasting legacy and their influence is still felt to this day. Whether it is their scientific accomplishments or philosophical musings, these historical figures have truly made a difference in the world.
Sources: