Grothendieck showed a talent for mathematics at an early age. He was accepted to the École Normale Supérieure in Paris in 1945 and he quickly became one of the most promising young mathematicians in France. In 1950, he published his first major work, "Éléments de géométrie algébrique," which revolutionized the field.
Grothendieck continued to make major contributions to mathematics throughout his career. He developed a new theory of algebraic geometry, called "schemes," which is now considered one of the most important foundations of modern mathematics. He also made significant contributions to other areas of mathematics, including number theory, topology, and category theory.
In the late 1960s, Grothendieck became increasingly involved in political activism. He was a vocal critic of the Vietnam War and he supported various left-wing causes. In 1970, he left France and moved to the United States, where he continued his research and activism.
Grothendieck died on November 13, 2014, in Saint-Lizier, France. He was 86 years old. He is considered one of the greatest mathematicians of the 20th century and his work has had a profound impact on the development of mathematics.
Here is a more detailed timeline of Grothendieck's life:
* 1928: Born in Berlin, Germany.
* 1933: Fled Germany with his parents and settled in France.
* 1945: Accepted to the École Normale Supérieure in Paris.
* 1950: Published his first major work, "Éléments de géométrie algébrique."
* 1957: Awarded the Fields Medal, the most prestigious prize in mathematics.
* 1960: Became a professor at the University of Paris.
* 1968: Became increasingly involved in political activism.
* 1970: Left France and moved to the United States.
* 1988: Retired from teaching.
* 2008: Awarded the Abel Prize, another prestigious prize in mathematics.
* 2014: Died in Saint-Lizier, France.