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Eli Whitney Blake Jr.
Eli Whitney Blake, Jr.jpg
Born (1836-04-20)April 20, 1836
Died October 1, 1895(1895-10-01) (aged 59)
Hampton, Connecticut, U.S.
Occupation Scientist
Spouse(s)
Helen Mary Rood
(m. 1860; died 1869)
Children 2
Parent(s)

Eli Whitney Blake Jr. (born April 20, 1836 – died October 1, 1895) was an American scientist. He was known for his work in physics. His father, also named Eli Whitney Blake, was an inventor. The family name came from his great-uncle, Eli Whitney, who invented the famous cotton gin.

Growing Up and Learning

Eli Whitney Blake Jr. was born in New Haven, Connecticut, on April 20, 1836. He was one of twelve children. His parents were Eli Whitney Blake and Eliza Maria Blake.

He went to Yale University and graduated in 1857. After Yale, he spent a year at the Sheffield Scientific School. He was also part of a special group called Skull and Bones.

Studying in Europe

After his studies in America, Eli traveled to Europe. There, he continued his education. He studied chemistry and physics at famous universities. These included the University of Heidelberg, the University of Marburg, and the Humboldt University of Berlin.

A Career in Science

When Eli Whitney Blake Jr. came back to America, he became a professor. In 1867, he taught chemistry and physics at the University of Vermont.

Teaching Physics

Soon after, in 1868, he moved to Cornell University. There, he was a professor of physics. He also taught about mechanical arts. For a short time (1868–1869), he also taught physics at Columbia College.

From 1870 until 1895, he held the main physics position at Brown University. He spent many years teaching and researching there.

Scientific Contributions

Even though he wasn't super famous, Blake was an important scientist. He was a member of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. This group helps science move forward. He also wrote articles for science magazines. One of these was the American Journal of Science and Arts.

Family Life

On March 8, 1860, Eli Whitney Blake Jr. married Helen Mary Rood. They had two children together.

Their children were:

  • Alida Gouverneur Blake (1861–1938)
  • Eli Whitney Blake III (1867–1902)

Eli Whitney Blake Jr. passed away on October 1, 1895. He died in Hampton, Connecticut.

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