
American
Physicist
11 May 1918
15 Feb 1988
Richard Feynman, born on May 11, 1918, in Queens, New York, was a brilliant physicist, teacher, and Nobel laureate renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to quantum mechanics and particle physics. Feynman's early years were marked by an insatiable curiosity and a natural talent for mathematics and science. He graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 1939 and went on to obtain his Ph.D. from Princeton University in 1942, where he worked under the supervision of John Wheeler.
Feynman's most notable contributions to physics include his development of the "Feynman diagrams," which provided a visual representation of the mathematical expressions governing the behavior of subatomic particles. These diagrams revolutionized the field of quantum field theory and earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1965, along with Julian Schwinger and Sin-Itiro Tomonaga. Feynman was also known for his exceptional teaching abilities and his engaging lectures, which were characterized by his unique blend of humor, enthusiasm, and deep understanding of the subject matter. His lectures at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), later compiled into the famous "Feynman Lectures on Physics," inspired generations of physicists and science enthusiasts worldwide. Beyond his scientific achievements, Feynman was also an avid bongo player, artist, and adventurer, embodying a zest for life and a commitment to curiosity and exploration. His legacy as one of the greatest physicists of the 20th century endures, leaving an indelible mark on the scientific community and popular culture alike.