Jerónimo de Ayanz y Beaumont facts for kids
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Jerónimo de Ayanz y Beaumont (born in 1553 – died on March 23, 1613) was a Spanish soldier, artist, scientist, musician, and amazing inventor. He was a pioneer in creating and using the steam engine. He also designed systems to make mines safer, improved scientific tools, and created new types of furnaces for many uses.
He invented a special diving suit and even designed a submarine! One of his most famous inventions was the steam engine. He received the first patent for a modern steam engine in 1606.
Jerónimo's Early Life
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Jerónimo was born in a place called Guenduláin, in Navarre, Spain. His father, Carlos de Ayanz, was a captain in the army. His mother, Catalina de Beaumont, made sure her children received a good education.
When Jerónimo was about 14 years old, in 1567, he went to serve King Felipe II. At the royal court, he learned many important skills. He studied military tactics, reading, arts, and mathematics. These studies helped him later when he became interested in how the world works.
Jerónimo's Military Adventures
Jerónimo started his military career in 1571. He fought in several campaigns, including in Tunisia and Italy. He served under famous leaders like John of Austria and Alexander Farnese.
He was known for his bravery. Once, he marched with his army from Milan to Namur in just 32 days during winter! He also fought bravely in the Battle of Gembloux in 1578. In another battle, he was badly hurt but kept fighting. The famous writer Lope de Vega even wrote about him in a play, calling him "the knight with the bronze fingers" because he was so strong.
King Felipe II rewarded Jerónimo for his courage. He received income and was given the Military Order of Calatrava, a special honor.
In 1587, Jerónimo became the general manager of all the mines in Spain and America. He helped solve many difficult problems in mining at that time. He also helped improve the safety of the coast in Cartagena, Spain, which led to the creation of a naval base there.
Amazing Inventions
Jerónimo de Ayanz was recognized for up to 48 inventions in 1606. These were called "invention privileges" back then, similar to patents today. King Philip III himself signed off on them!
- Diving Suit: He built a special diving suit that could get fresh air while underwater. On August 2, 1602, a diver stayed underwater in the Pisuerga River for an hour using this suit! King Philip III watched the demonstration.
- Underwater Vehicles: He also designed a large underwater boat and a smaller one. These had oars, gloves to grab things, and windows. They even had floating tubes and pumps to bring in fresh air. There was even an inner fan to keep the crew cool!
- Steam-Powered Pump: Jerónimo almost died in a mining accident. This experience inspired him to invent a steam-powered pump system. This pump could drain water and gas out of mines. It worked very well in a mine in Guadalcanal. This invention was created about 50 years before similar ideas by other inventors!
He is most famous for inventing the first steam-powered water pump for mines. He received a patent for it from the Spanish king in 1606.
Jerónimo also made improvements to scientific tools, windmills, and created new types of furnaces. These furnaces were used in factories, for military purposes, and even in homes. He truly was a genius inventor!
- Designs of Jerónimo de Ayanz
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