Laplace

PIERRE SIMON, (lah-plahs',) an illustrious French astronomer and mathematician, B. in Calvados, 1749. In 1768, through the influence of D'Alembert, he became profe or of mathematics in the military school, and in 1785 a titular member of the Academy of Sciences. In 1796 his Exposition of the System of the Universe attracted general attention, and opened to him the doors of the French Academy. In 1817 he became president of that body, and was created a marquis. The grandest monument of his genius-the Traité de la Me can i que Celeste (5 vols., 1799-1825) - has placed him as a scientist among the greatest names either of ancient or modern times. D. 1827. [s. 527]