Catholic mathematical and physical astronomer, born Beaumont-en-Auge, March 23, 1749; died Paris, France, March 5, 1827. Known as "the Newton of France," and the great master in celestial mechanics. Made valuable contributions to the theory of ellipsoidal attraction and the theory of probability. In his honor spherical harmonics are called "Laplace's coefficients." His "System of the World," and "The Mechanics of the Heavens," containing explanations of his theories and discoveries in astronomy, secured his admission to the French Academy of Sciences (1785). He was one of the founders of the Bureau of Longitudes, and was made a member of the principal academies of Europe.
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
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