
As master of the Mint, Newton moved the British currency, from the silver to the gold standard.He took his duties very seriously, seeking to prevent corruption. In 1696, Newton was appointed warden of the Royal Mint.Newton’s book – Philosophiae Naturalis Principia Mathematica ( Mathematical Principles of Natural Philosophy), has been called the single most influential book on physics.However, there is no evidence he was actually hit by an apple! Newton himself would tell the story of an apple falling from a tree giving him inspiration for his work on gravity.He was elected as Member of Parliament for the University in 1700, but only held this post for a year.He became an acquaintance of the political philosopher John Locke. Newton was interested in the new wave of philosophy becoming known in the Western world.Many of his writing were kept quiet as some alchemy practices were punishable by death. Newton wrote prolifically on alchemy, believing a key goal was the Philosopher’s Stone (a substance which would turn base metals into gold.Throughout his life, Newton continued research into a wide range of subjects including mathematics, optics, astronomy and alchemy.It is claimed Newton’s discovered the theory of gravity after watching an apple fall in the orchard.After the death of his mother in 1678, Newton entered six years of intellectual seclusion where he only communicated with the briefest notes.Isaac Newton disliked to hear any criticism and he became embroiled in a bitter row with Robert Hooke, an original member of the Royal Academy.Isaac Newton became known in the scientific community through his refractive telescope – a big improvement on existing telescopes.Between 16 the University of Cambridge was dispersed due to the Plague and Newton returned to Woolsthorpe Manor.Newton was notorious for his bad temper and conflicts with other people.After from a brief flirtation in his teenage years, he was too absorbed in his studies for romance. He remained single throughout his life.Isaac Newton suffered two nervous breakdowns.He owned more books on historical subjects than on science.Newton’s mother wanted Isaac to become a farmer, but Isaac had no interest in farming exams and failed!.Grantham was the birthplace of Mrs Thatcher.King’s School, Grantham in Lincolnshire still has his signature inscribed on the walls.).The young Isaac was enrolled in King’s School in Grantham, a town in Lincolnshire.Newton actually studied for a degree in law.

He died March 31, 1727, in London, England, United Kingdom.


