Hypatia

(415 - 370 BC)

Hypatia was an Egyptian mathematician and philosopher who lived between 415-370. She taught mathematics, astronomy, and philosophy at the Neoplatic school in Alexandria, Egypt. She was the daughter of Theon, a famous mathematician of the time.

Hypatia wrote three books on mathematics and astronomy. In addition, she invented several tools relating to astronomy and the Earth sciences. A few include: a device for measuring water levels, a distillation machine, an astrolabe (instrument that fixes the positions of the sun and stars), a planisphere, and a hydrometer (measures the specific gravity of liquids).

Hypatia also wrote about religion and philosophy. The following is one of her more famous sayings:

"Reserve your right to think, for even to think wrongly is better than not to think at all."

Hypatia was killed violently due to her teachings, which were considered Pagan.

**The preceding information is provided by the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research's Windows to the Universe.**