Newton's first words in Parliament
- In 1689 Isaac Newton was appointed a member of the House of Lords of the United Kingdom, immediately after the fall of King James II. Newton's scientific achievements had to do with it, but his commitment to defending Cambridge University against the former king was decisive in his appointment.
(Arg: Godfrey Kneller)
But for a long time the scientist remained in his seat, in silence, until he got up one day and asked for his word. And when everyone waited for a brilliant speech from the genius, he exclaimed: “I beg you to close this window on the right, because a strong wind stream comes in.” From then on, it would also contribute little in the upper chamber, and a lot in the lab.