Blaise Pascal Biography

Blaise Pascal is born in Clermont-Ferrand to Etienne Pascal and Antoinette Begon.

Invents a calculating machine

Pascal circulates an essay presenting important results concerning conic sections.

Pascal begins constructing a mechanical calculator to assist his father's tax calculations.

Pascal conducts experiments investigating atmospheric pressure and the possibility of a vacuum.

Pascal publishes experimental findings supporting the existence of a vacuum.

Demonstrates that atmospheric pressure decreases with altitude.

Arranges pressure measurements at different elevations on Puy de Dome.

Applies the arithmetic triangle to combinations and probability calculations.

Pascal and Pierre de Fermat exchange letters that help establish mathematical probability theory.

Organizes binomial coefficients in a systematic triangular arrangement.

Pascal experiences an intense religious conversion recorded in his Memorial.

Pascal begins publishing the Provincial Letters during the Jansenist controversy.

Pascal helps establish an early public transport service using fixed routes and fares.

Blaise Pascal dies in Paris, aged thirty-nine.