Albert Einstein is one of the most recognizable names in science. Known for his groundbreaking work in physics, he has long been a symbol of intellectual achievement. But despite his renown, there are still many interesting things about Einstein that few people know.
1. Einstein didn’t start speaking until he was 4 years old
It’s hard to imagine that one of the most brilliant minds of our time didn’t speak until he was 4 years old. It was only after his family feared he was mentally deficient that he began to talk. This late start led some doctors to believe he had learning difficulties, but it didn’t seem to hold him back in life.
2. He was offered the presidency of Israel
Although Einstein was born in Ulm, Germany, his family moved to Switzerland when he was only a child. Later, he emigrated to the United States and became a citizen in 1940. In the 1950s, after Israel gained its independence, the country’s Prime Minister offered Einstein the presidency. Despite his respect for Israel, Einstein declined the invitation, citing his lack of political experience.
3. Einstein was a violinist
Einstein was known for his love of music, particularly the works of Mozart. In fact, he was an accomplished violinist and often played with other musicians. In later life, he even had the opportunity to play with one of the great violinists of the day, Yehudi Menuhin.
4. His brain was preserved for scientific study
After Einstein’s death in 1955, his brain was removed and preserved for study. Scientists hoped to find clues to his genius by examining his brain, but the research has been inconclusive. Today, Einstein’s brain is on display at the Mutter Museum in Philadelphia.
5. Einstein’s famous equation wasn’t his only contribution to science
Einstein is perhaps best known for his equation E=mc2, but he made many other groundbreaking contributions to science. His work on Brownian motion helped to confirm the existence of atoms, and he also developed a theory of general relativity that changed our understanding of the universe.
6. He was a pacifist
Despite his involvement in the development of the atomic bomb, Einstein was a committed pacifist. He believed that war could only cause suffering and destruction and was an outspoken advocate for peace.
7. Einstein’s second wife was his first cousin
Einstein’s first marriage ended in divorce, and he later married his second cousin, Elsa Einstein. Although it may seem strange to us today, it was not uncommon for cousins to marry at that time.
8. He almost became a Swiss patent clerk
After finishing his studies in Germany, Einstein was unable to find a teaching position and ended up working as a clerk in a patent office in Switzerland. It was during this time that he developed some of his most revolutionary ideas in physics.
9. Einstein was an advocate for civil rights
Einstein was a lifelong advocate for civil rights and was particularly involved in the fight against segregation in the United States. He was also a member of the NAACP and spoke out against racism and discrimination.
10. Einstein’s final words were in German
Despite spending much of his life in the United States, Einstein’s final words were in his native German. He spoke the words, “I want to go home” before passing away on April 18, 1955.
In conclusion, Albert Einstein was a fascinating figure whose many accomplishments and quirks have long been a subject of fascination. From his love of music to his commitment to pacifism, he was a complex and multifaceted individual whose legacy continues to inspire and intrigue us.
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