Simon Stevin (1548-1620)

Abstract

Simon Stevin was born in Brugge in Flanders. In 1581 he left Flanders and settled in Holland. Stevin is one of the few truly great Flemish/Dutch mathematicians. Stevin was a typical Renaissance scientist. He wrote extensively on many subjects: engineering, bookkeeping, algebra, perspective, astronomy, music and others. He is best known for his highly original work in statics and hydrostatics. He also applied the results of this work in the analysis and synthesis of machines.