Michael Faraday

Michael Faraday (1791 - 1867) Photo: German Museum Munich

Michael Faraday was born on September 22, 1791, in Newington, Surrey, a London suburb. He was the son of a farrier. His family life revolved around the Sandeman church, which he joined in 1821, remaining an active member until his death. During his time as an apprentice bookbinder, he devoured a wide variety of books. A customer, of his guild master enabled him to attend two chemistry lectures at the Royal Institution. He drew the attention of Sir Humphrey Davys, becoming an assistant in his laboratory in 1813. During his years as a chemistry student, Faraday worked on his lecturing skills, leading the Friday evening discussion groups and the Christmas lectures for children. He immersed himself in experiments led by Oersted, and those concerning the liquefaction of chlorine. Between the years of 1821-1822, he discovered electromagnetic ring structures, prompting the dialogue between himself and Ampère. However, Faraday lacked the time necessary for more in-depth trials with electromagnetism, due to the workload of his chemistry experiments. After 1839, his health deteriorated rapidly. Over the next six years, he took greater care of himself, spending large amounts of time in spas abroad. In 1845, he discovered para- and diamagnetism. Starting in 1855, his health worsened once again, and he passed away on August 25, 1867. He was buried in the Highgate Cemetery, having decided against a burial in Westminster Abbey.