Gaspard Monge was a French mathematician and scientist. He is best known for his work in geometry, and among his many contributions to mathematics was his development of descriptive geometry, which combines elements of algebra and geometry.
Monge was born on May 10, 1746 in Beaune, Burgundy, France. His family was poor but thanks to the help of a local aristocrat, the Count of Bossut, he received a scholarship to study at the Oratorian College in Beaune. Monge excelled in his studies there and was awarded another scholarship to study at the prestigious École Militaire in Paris in 1762.
At the École Militaire, Monge further developed his mathematical skills, studying a variety of topics from geometry, conic sections, algebra, literature, and philosophy. He graduated in 1769 with a degree in engineering and was appointed a professor at the same school in 1771.
It was during this period that Monge developed the basis for descriptive geometry, a new field of mathematics that combined the principles of algebra and geometry. He realized that the ability to describe and analyze three-dimensional objects was essential for engineers and architects, and so he created a system of equations that could be used to analyze and reconstruct three-dimensional objects while working with two-dimensional diagrams. His work was so influential that it was adopted by the French military and was used by French engineers to design fortifications, aerial balloons, and other machinery.
In 1788, Monge received a commission in the French Army as a lecturer in descriptive geometry and continued to lead a team of military engineers. He also oversaw the construction of several buildings including the Louvre and was credited with the design of the first mechanical calculating machine.
In addition to his studies and writing, Monge was involved with other aspects of French society. He was a member of the Jacobin Society, a political organization dedicated to bringing about change in France during the French Revolution, and served as a member of the Legislative Assembly for the Rhone Department.
Monges contributions to mathematics were widely recognized during his lifetime. He became a member of the Académie royale des sciences in 1780 and was awarded the Academys highest honor in 1787. In 1810 Napoleon bestowed the title of Count of Palma on him and Monge went on to become professor of analysis and mechanics at the École Polytechnique in Paris.
He died in 1818, leaving behind a legacy of mathematical discoveries and techniques. His work in descriptive geometry was continually developed and is still used in engineering and design today, and his writings appeared in many textbooks. Today, Monge is recognized as one of the founding fathers of modern and analytical geometry.
