Famous Mathematicians

Great thinkers whose work has helped shaped today's world.

Andrew Wiles

Image of Andrew Wiles

Photograph Credit: Charles Rex Arbogast

1953

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Andrew Wiles is a renowned mathematician known for his groundbreaking work in number theory and specifically for proving Fermat's Last Theorem in 1994. Born in Cambridge, England in 1953, Wiles developed a passion for mathematics from a young age.

Fermat's Last Theorem, first conjectured by Pierre de Fermat in 1637, states that there are no three positive integers a, b, and c that can satisfy the equation a^n + b^n = c^n for any integer value of n greater than 2. This problem had puzzled mathematicians for over 350 years until Wiles successfully proved it, using advanced techniques in algebra and number theory.

For school students, understanding Wiles' achievement can be a great inspiration to pursue mathematics further. It showcases the importance of perseverance, creativity, and dedication in solving complex mathematical problems. Wiles' work not only solved a centuries-old mystery but also opened up new avenues for research and exploration in number theory.

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