The lives and works of Robert Recorde (Q2825814)

The author describes life and works of Robert Recorde, who lived in England in the 16th century and was a remarkable polymath, endowed with exceptional communication skills. However, his skills did not extend to the political sphere, his lack of guile and his meticulous attention to accuracy, regardless of consequences, ultimately led to his demise. Recorde was awarded the degree of Bachelor of Arts at Oxford and got a license to practice medicine. After 12 years of medical practice he was awarded the degree of MD by Cambridge. His subsequent career encompassed mathematics and astronomy. Recorde was also known as an antiquary and linguist. He published hundreds of popular expository articles, which had a wide readership. His abilities as an applied scientist drew Recorde into Crown service as well as into the conflict with Sir William Herbert, first Earl of Pembroke. Recorde's work for the Crown could be described as that of an iron-founder, a production manager, an accountant and an extraction metallurgist.NEWLINENEWLINEFor the entire collection see [Zbl 1309.01006].