The first natively-published American mathematics book was written anonymously by Isaac Greenwood in 1729. A graduate of Harvard College, Greenwood introduced Newtonian experimental philosophy to the American colonies after attending lectures in London. His career included holding the inaugural Hollis Chair of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy before his eventual departure from academia.
Academic Foundation and London Studies
Greenwood completed his studies at Harvard in 1721. During that same year, he participated in the public discourse regarding smallpox inoculation, advocating for the practice. He later travelled to London to lodge with John Theophilus Desaguliers, where he attended lectures on Newtonian experimental philosophy. These experiences informed his 1726 book, An Experimental Course of Mechanical Philosophy, which brought these scientific principles back to the colonies.
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Thomas Hollis initially considered endowing a chair at Harvard specifically for Greenwood, although their relationship later soured due to concerns regarding Greenwood's financial management. Regardless, Greenwood secured the Hollis Chair of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy in 1727. In 1729, he authored his mathematical text, which was the first of its kind published in America. This work established the short scale value for a billion, a convention that persists in many English-speaking regions today.
Personal Decline and Final Years
In 1729, Greenwood married Sara Shrimpton Clarke, the daughter of Dr. John Clarke, and they eventually had five children. His tenure at Harvard ended in 1737 when he was removed from his position citing intemperance. Facing significant financial difficulties, he served as a chaplain for the Royal Navy, starting on HMS Rose in 1742 and moving to HMS Aldborough in 1744. He finished his service in Charleston, South Carolina, where he died in 1745 due to the effects of alcohol.
Fast facts
- Born: 1702, Boston
- Died: 22 October 1745, Charleston
- Education: Harvard College, 1721
- Primary Role: Hollis Chair of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy
- Marriage: Sara Shrimpton Clarke, 31 July 1729
- Notable Work: An Experimental Course of Mechanical Philosophy, 1726
- Naval Service: HMS Rose and HMS Aldborough
Questions readers ask
What significant mathematical contribution did Isaac Greenwood make?
He wrote the first American-published mathematics book in 1729, which introduced the short scale value for a billion.
Why was he removed from his Harvard position?
He was removed from the Hollis Chair in 1737 due to intemperance.
Achievements
- Held posts at Harvard University
- Fields: mathematics
