Albert Einstein
Physicist, Theoretical Physicist, and Noble Prize Winner
Early Life
Albert Einstein was born on March 14, 1879, in Ulm, Germany. He was the first child of Hermann and Pauline Einstein, who were both of Jewish heritage. Einstein was a curious child, showing an early interest in science and mathematics, although he often struggled with the rigid education system of his time.
Education
After moving to Munich, Einstein enrolled at the Polytechnic Institute in Zurich, Switzerland, where he graduated in 1900. His time there not only solidified his understanding of physics but also introduced him to lifelong friendships, one of which was with fellow student Mileva Marić, who he later married.
Career and Discoveries
Einstein's career began modestly as a patent examiner at the Swiss Patent Office. However, his real contributions to science began in 1905, a year often referred to as his "Annus Mirabilis" (Miracle Year), during which he published four groundbreaking papers. These contributions included:
- The Photoelectric Effect - Proposing that light can behave as both a wave and a particle, which later earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1921.
- Brownian Motion - Providing empirical evidence for the existence of atoms and molecules.
- Special Relativity - Introducing the revolutionary E=mc² equation, demonstrating the equivalency of mass and energy.
- General Relativity - A theory of gravitation that transformed our understanding of space, time, and gravity, published in 1915.
Later Life and Legacy
Einstein emigrated to the United States in 1933, escaping the rise of the Nazi regime. He took a position at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, where he continued to work until his death on April 18, 1955. His theories have laid the groundwork for modern physics and quantum mechanics. Einstein is often regarded as one of the most influential scientists of the 20th century, inspiring generations of physicists and thinkers.
Personal Life
Beyond his scientific achievements, Einstein was also known for his humanitarian efforts. He advocated for civil rights, spoke out against war, and was a passionate supporter of Zionism. He was married twice; first to Mileva Marić, with whom he had three children, and later to his cousin Elsa Löwenthal.