Cauchy, AUGUSTIN LOUIS

Cauchy, AUGUSTIN LOUIS, mathematician, born in Paris, 21st August 1789, published in 1815 a Mémoire sur la Théorie des Ondes, which contributed greatly to establish the undulatory theory of light. Between 1820 and 1830 he wrote several important treatises; and at Prague, where he resided as tutor to the Comte de Chambord, he published his Mémoire sur la Dispersion de la Lumière (1837). From 1848 to 1852 he was professor of Astronomy at Paris, but refused the oath of allegiance to Napoleon III., and lived in retirement till his death, 23d May 1857. A reissue of his works, in 26 vols., was commenced by the Academy in 1882. See his Life by Valson (2 vols. Paris, 1868).