Peter Turner (mathematician) facts for kids

Peter Turner (1586–1652) was an English mathematician. He was a well-known professor who taught math at two important universities in England. His life was affected by the big changes happening in England during the 17th century.

Early Life and Education

Peter Turner was born in London, England, in 1586. When he was about 14 years old, in 1600, he started studying at St Mary Hall, Oxford. This is like enrolling in college today. He continued his studies and earned his Master of Arts degree in 1605 from Christ Church, Oxford.

After finishing his studies, he became a Fellow at Merton College, Oxford in 1607. Being a Fellow meant he was a senior member of the college. He would have been involved in teaching and research there.

A Professor of Mathematics

Peter Turner was a respected teacher of mathematics. From 1620 to 1630, he worked as a professor of geometry at Gresham College in London. Geometry is a branch of mathematics that studies shapes, sizes, positions, and properties of space. At Gresham College, he gave public lectures. This meant anyone interested could come and learn from him.

In 1631, he moved to the University of Oxford. There, he became the Savilian Professor of Geometry. This was a very important and respected position. He held this role for many years, until 1649. During his time at Oxford, he also helped with changes to the university's rules and laws.

During the English Civil War

England faced a difficult period called the First English Civil War in the 1640s. This was a conflict between the King and Parliament. In 1641, Peter Turner chose to join the King's side. He enlisted in the royalist forces led by John Byron, 1st Baron Byron.

During an early fight near Stow-on-the-Wold, he was captured. He became a prisoner of war. However, he was later released in 1643 as part of a prisoner exchange. This meant he was traded for another captured person.

Later Years

After the war, in 1648, the Parliament took control of Oxford University. They removed many people from their positions, including Peter Turner. He was "ejected" from his Savilian Chair. This meant he lost his job as a professor.

After losing his position, Peter Turner faced hard times. He lived in poverty with his sister in Southwark, a part of London. He passed away in January 1652.

See also

• list of Gresham Professors of Geometry