The Scientific Revolution (1450-1750)

These flashcards cover key concepts and figures from the Scientific Revolution, highlighting their contributions and significance in history.

Scientific Revolution

An intellectual and cultural transformation that began in Europe from the mid-1500s to the early 1700s, emphasizing knowledge acquired through observation and experimentation.

Nicolaus Copernicus

Polish astronomer who proposed that the Earth rotates around the sun, challenging the geocentric model of the universe.

Johannes Kepler

German astronomer and mathematician who demonstrated that planets revolve around the sun in elliptical orbits and at varying speeds.

Galileo Galilei

Italian mathematician who improved the telescope and made significant astronomical observations, leading to conflicts with the Catholic Church.

Sir Isaac Newton

British scientist known for formulating the laws of motion and gravity, and for developing calculus.

Francis Bacon

English philosopher who promoted the scientific method, emphasizing observation and evidence in the pursuit of truth.

Rene Descartes

French philosopher and mathematician known for logical deduction and the concept of analytic geometry.

William Harvey

English physician who discovered that blood circulates throughout the body, pumped by the heart.

Robert Hooke

English scientist who discovered cells using a microscope.

Robert Boyle

Irish chemist who established chemistry as a pure science, defining elements and challenging traditional alchemy.

Joseph Priestley

English chemist who discovered oxygen and conducted experiments that led to the invention of carbonated drinks.