Sir Isaac Newton (1642–1727) was a Lincolnshire-born mathematician and physicist whose work transformed European science. His three laws of motion and his theory of universal gravitation, set out in the Principia Mathematica of 1687, explained the orbits of the planets and the motion of objects on Earth using a single mathematical framework. He also made fundamental contributions to optics and to the development of calculus.
Further reading: an editorial guide on this topic opens in a new window for additional context.
Newton was a Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge, served briefly as a Member of Parliament and as Master of the Royal Mint, and was president of the Royal Society from 1703 until his death. He is buried in Westminster Abbey.
You may be asked who formulated the laws of motion and gravity (Newton), or which book set out his theories (Principia Mathematica).
Test yourself on this topic
These questions from the official-format question bank cover the same material. Tap any question to see the correct answer and a short explanation.
Keep going
- Read the full study notes for British History.
- Try a practice test on this chapter.
- Sit a full 24-question timed mock.
- Browse the complete library of topic explainers.
Related topic explainers
Historic Figures of British Sport
Sir Roger Bannister, Sir Bobby Charlton, Sir Steve Redgrave and the country's most celebrated athletes.
Post-War Immigration to Britain
The Empire Windrush, South Asian migration and the rebuilding of Britain after 1945.
The American War of Independence
How the thirteen American colonies broke away from British rule between 1775 and 1783.
Mary, Queen of Scots
A Catholic queen of Scotland, prisoner in England for nineteen years and executed in 1587.