Isaac Newtonknown worldwide for it Revolutionary contribution to sciencehad a lesser-known but equally fascinating side: his work in Mint from England. This phase of his life, which began with a position in the English Parliament, provides an interesting contrast to his role as a physicist and mathematician, and reveals a more complex and varied dimension of his personality.
Only two years after publishing his wonderful novel Mathematical principles of natural philosophyNewton was a member of the Parliament of England representing the University of Cambridge. He held this position from 1689 to 1701. However, in contrast to his scientific brilliance, his political career was less notable. By some accounts, his only recorded intervention in Parliament was to complain about A Cold air stream And ask to close the window. This tale contrasts with his imposing figure in the scientific field, offering a more human and everyday view of Newton.
Isaac Newton was a master of the mint in England. Image: Royal Mint of the United Kingdom
He moved to London in 1696 to take up the position of Keeper of the Mint, thanks to the patronage of the Mint. Charles MontaguThe then Chancellor of the Exchequer marked a turning point in his career. We might think that such a job would be below the intellectual level of one of the most important figures in the history of science, but Newton took his new responsibility seriously, and retired from his duties at Cambridge In 1701 to devote himself entirely to his work at the Mint.
This new life was consolidated in 1699 when he rose to office Mint Manager. This career change, from academia to government administration, was sudden. At the Mint, Newton not only supervised the minting of coins, but also played a crucial role in developing methods to combat counterfeiting, a serious problem in the economy of the time.
It was one of his most important tasks “Great restoration” In 1696, an ambitious project to replace old and worn-out currency. During this period it was estimated that 20% of the coins received for reminting were Fake. Forgery was considered High treasonIt is a crime punishable by hanging and dismemberment. Although it was difficult to convict criminals, Newton proved extraordinarily effective at this task. Strict measures were implemented to ensure the quality and standardization of the new coins. His meticulous attention to detail was evident in this process: he personally supervised the bullion, weight and design of each coin, ensuring that minting standards were exceptionally high.
But what truly distinguished Newton's work at the Mint was his relentless pursuit of counterfeiters. He took this aspect of his work very seriously, using methods that some might consider surprisingly aggressive for the time. disguised, Bars and pubs he frequents To collect evidence himself, and show a bold and cunning side. I personally investigated cases, conducted interrogations and follow-ups. His determination to bring counterfeiters to justice was unwavering. Between June 1698 and Christmas 1699, he conducted more than 100 interrogations of witnesses, informants and suspects, leading to the successful prosecution of Counterfeiting 28 coins.
This uncompromising approach contrasts sharply with the image of a scientific Newton immersed in the world of mathematics and physics. While his laws of motion and law Universal gravity They have transformed our Understanding the universeHis work at the Mint reflects a more down-to-earth and down-to-earth side.
Newton's duality as a scientist and mint director is a testament to the diversity of his talents and interests. On both sides, he demonstrated an unwavering commitment to… Accuracy and excellenceWhether in the field of science or in the complex world of economics and law. His legacy at the Mint, although less well-known, is a fascinating reminder that one person's contributions to history can be many and varied, each with its own story of rigor, innovation, and dedication to improving society.
After all, we are talking about the same Isaac Newton who devoted more than a million words of his writings to pseudoscience. Alchemy or theologyEspecially regarding the chronology of the Bible. He wrote a lot about alchemy but did not publish anything, since the methods of this discipline were already in doubt even in Newton's time. Although it is useless to judge someone, no matter how he may be a symbol of genius or a major figure in the history of science, with the vision of the 21st century, Newton's shadows can make us understand that even the most brilliant minds have their weak moments and to whom they can devote themselves. , sometimes with great success More mundane matters Of deciphering the deepest workings of the universe.
References:
- Westfall, R.S. Isaac Newton, A Life, Madrid, Cambridge University Press, 2001 ISBN 84-8323-173-5 Fara, P. (2002). Newton: The Making of Genius. Columbia University Press. ISBN 9780231128063
