Biography

German-born Nicholas of Cusa was a man of great intellect and understanding. He spent his 63 years (1401-1464) exploring many facets of the world around him. As a great mathematician, he was able to clearly explain religious concepts through mathematical illustrations. Botany was another area of expertise for Nicholas. He studied plants and their process of using air. Map making, medicine, and collecting"books" were also areas Nicholas was passionate about. Then there is the church. He believed local church councils should have more authority than the Papacy. One of his more well-known works is On Catholic Concordance (1433). He also published a work called On Learned Ignorance (1440). Nicholas died on August 11, 1464.

Wailand Groenendyk
CCEL Staff Writer