George David Birkhoff

George David Birkhoff (March 21, 1884 – November 12, 1944) was an American mathematician, best known for what is now called the ergodic theorem. Birkhoff was one of the most important leaders in American mathematics in his generation, and during his prime he was considered by many to be the preeminent American mathematician.

His parents were David Birkhoff and Jane Gertrude Droppers. The mathematician Garrett Birkhoff (1911–1996) was his son.

Read more about George David Birkhoff:  Career, Work, Influence On Hiring Practices, Selected Publications

Famous quotes containing the words george and/or david:

    The finest eloquence is that which gets things done; the worst is that which delays them.
    —David Lloyd George (1863–1945)

    The moose is singularly grotesque and awkward to look at. Why should it stand so high at the shoulders? Why have so long a head? Why have no tail to speak of?
    —Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)