Isaac Newton (1643-1727) was the brainy game-changer who brought us gravity, calculus, and some seriously big ideas about how the universe works. Born in rural England, he was a curious kid who turned a fascination with tinkering into a legacy of brilliance. Legend has it, a falling apple got him pondering gravity—though the truth’s a bit more complex (but hey, great story).
In his "breakthrough years" during a plague-induced retreat, Newton cranked out ideas that became the foundation of classical physics, including his three laws of motion. He also invented calculus (in his spare time, no less) and made major contributions to optics.
Not just a science whiz, Newton was a bit of a mystery—shy, intense, and fiercely private. But his work reshaped our understanding of the natural world, earning him a place in history as one of the greatest minds of all time.
Curious Minds Challenge
There are scientists among us! Do you like to wonder and investigate? Be sure to pick up your Read City gameboard—enter the lab to perform an "experiment" by completing reading and STEM activities. Earn a prize when you complete the experiment.