 |
James Joseph SylvesterEnglish mathematician.
Date of Birth: 03.09.1814
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
- James Joseph Sylvester
- Academic Career in Ireland and the United States
- First Professorship in America
- Founding the American Journal of Mathematics
- Return to England and Later Life
- Honors and Legacy
James Joseph Sylvester
Early Life and EducationJames Joseph Sylvester was born on September 3, 1814, in London, England. From an early age, he displayed an aptitude for mathematics and enrolled at St. John's College, Cambridge University, in 1831.
Despite being hampered by recurring illnesses, Sylvester excelled academically, ranking second in the 1837 mathematics tripos. However, he was denied a bachelor's degree due to his refusal to subscribe to the Thirty-Nine Articles of the Church of England.
Academic Career in Ireland and the United States
In 1841, Sylvester obtained bachelor's and master's degrees from Trinity College Dublin. The same year, he traveled to the United States to take up a professorship at the University of Virginia. However, he soon returned to England.
First Professorship in America
In 1877, Sylvester returned to the United States as the first professor of mathematics at the newly established Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. His salary of $5,000 was generous for the time, and he famously stipulated that it be paid in gold.
Founding the American Journal of Mathematics
In 1878, Sylvester founded the American Journal of Mathematics, which was only the second mathematics journal in the United States at the time.
Return to England and Later Life
In 1883, Sylvester returned to England to become the Savilian Professor of Geometry at the University of Oxford. He held the post until his death, despite the university appointing a deputy for him in 1892.
Honors and Legacy
In recognition of his contributions to mathematics, the Royal Society established the Sylvester Medal in 1901, which is awarded annually for outstanding work in the field. Sylvester passed away on March 15, 1897, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of the most influential mathematicians of the 19th century.
