Today in History: Sir Isaac Newton Was Born

On this day (January 4) in 1643, Sir Isaac Newton was born. Sir Isaac was the genius who would discover the universal laws of gravity. He invented the first reflecting telescope, and invented a form of calculus. He is one of the most famous and influential scientists of all time. Yet, he was also fascinated by the occult and alchemy. After the South Sea Bubble burst (an early stock market crash in which he lost 20,000 pounds) he said, “I can calculate the motion of heavenly bodies, but not the madness of men.” With all of his accomplishments he appears to have maintained a measure of humility, for in speaking of his achievements he said, “If I have seen further than others, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.”