# Andrew Wiles

> English mathematician (1953–)

**Wikidata**: [Q184433](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q184433)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andrew_Wiles)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/andrew-wiles

## Summary
Andrew Wiles is a British mathematician renowned for proving Fermat's Last Theorem, a 350-year-old conjecture that had eluded mathematicians since its formulation. As a professor and researcher, he has made foundational contributions to number theory, particularly in the study of elliptic curves and modular forms. His work has earned him numerous prestigious awards, including the Abel Prize and the Royal Medal, solidifying his place as one of the most influential mathematicians of the modern era.

## Biography
- **Born**: April 11, 1953, in Cambridge, England
- **Nationality**: British
- **Education**:
  - Bachelor's degree from Merton College, University of Oxford
  - PhD from Clare College, University of Cambridge
- **Known for**: Proving Fermat's Last Theorem using modular elliptic curves and Galois representations
- **Employer(s)**:
  - University of Oxford (Merton College)
  - University of Cambridge (Clare College)
  - Princeton University
  - Institute for Advanced Study (Princeton, NJ)
  - Harvard University
- **Field(s)**: Number theory, algebraic geometry, modular forms

## Contributions
Andrew Wiles is best known for his proof of **Fermat's Last Theorem**, published in 1995 in the paper *"Modular Elliptic Curves and Fermat's Last Theorem."* This work resolved one of the most famous unsolved problems in mathematics, which states that no three positive integers \(a\), \(b\), and \(c\) satisfy the equation \(a^n + b^n = c^n\) for any integer value of \(n\) greater than 2. His proof relied on connecting elliptic curves to modular forms, a strategy that had been pursued by mathematicians for decades.

Wiles' research also includes significant contributions to **Iwasawa theory** and the **Birch and Swinnerton-Dyer conjecture**, both critical areas in number theory. His work on **Galois representations** and **modularity theorems** has had a profound impact on algebraic number theory and arithmetic geometry.

## FAQs

### What is Andrew Wiles most famous for?
Andrew Wiles is most famous for proving **Fermat's Last Theorem**, a problem that had remained unsolved for over 350 years. His proof, completed in 1995, used advanced techniques from algebraic geometry and number theory, particularly modular forms and elliptic curves.

### Where has Andrew Wiles worked?
Wiles has held academic positions at several prestigious institutions, including the **University of Oxford**, **University of Cambridge**, **Princeton University**, the **Institute for Advanced Study**, and **Harvard University**. He has been affiliated with both teaching and research roles throughout his career.

### What awards has Andrew Wiles received?
Wiles has received numerous awards, including:
- **Abel Prize** (2016)
- **Royal Medal** (2016)
- **Copley Medal** (2017)
- **Shaw Prize** (2005)
- **Wolf Prize in Mathematics** (1995/1996)
- **Fermat Prize** (1995)
- **Ostrowski Prize** (1995)
- **Cole Prize** (1997)
- **King Faisal International Prize in Science** (1998)
- **Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE)** (2000)

### What is the significance of Wiles' proof of Fermat's Last Theorem?
Wiles' proof was groundbreaking because it not only solved a centuries-old problem but also introduced powerful new techniques in number theory. His work connected seemingly unrelated areas of mathematics, such as elliptic curves and modular forms, and paved the way for further advancements in algebraic geometry.

### What is Andrew Wiles' educational background?
Wiles earned his **Bachelor's degree from Merton College, University of Oxford**, and his **PhD from Clare College, University of Cambridge**. His academic training laid the foundation for his later work in number theory and algebraic geometry.

## Why They Matter
Andrew Wiles' proof of Fermat's Last Theorem is one of the most celebrated achievements in modern mathematics. His work demonstrated the power of connecting different mathematical fields, such as elliptic curves and modular forms, to solve long-standing problems. Beyond Fermat's Last Theorem, his contributions to **Iwasawa theory** and the **Birch and Swinnerton-Dyer conjecture** have shaped contemporary number theory.

Wiles' influence extends beyond his research. As a professor at institutions like Princeton and Oxford, he has mentored numerous mathematicians, ensuring the continued advancement of number theory. His awards, including the **Abel Prize** and **Royal Medal**, reflect his status as a leading figure in mathematics, inspiring future generations of researchers.

## Notable For
- **Proving Fermat's Last Theorem** (1995), resolving a 350-year-old mathematical conjecture.
- **Abel Prize** (2016), one of the highest honors in mathematics.
- **Royal Medal** (2016) and **Copley Medal** (2017) from the Royal Society.
- **Shaw Prize** (2005) and **Wolf Prize in Mathematics** (1995/1996).
- **Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE)** (2000).
- **Fellow of the Royal Society** and member of multiple prestigious academies, including the **National Academy of Sciences** and the **French Academy of Sciences**.
- **Affiliations with top institutions**, including Princeton, Oxford, Cambridge, and Harvard.
- **Publication of "Modular Elliptic Curves and Fermat's Last Theorem"** (1995), a landmark paper in number theory.

## Body

### Early Life and Education
Andrew Wiles was born on **April 11, 1953, in Cambridge, England**. He developed an early interest in mathematics, particularly number theory, and pursued his undergraduate studies at **Merton College, University of Oxford**, where he earned his Bachelor's degree. He later completed his **PhD at Clare College, University of Cambridge**, under the supervision of renowned mathematicians.

### Career and Academic Affiliations
Wiles has held positions at some of the world's most prestigious academic institutions:
- **University of Oxford (Merton College)**: Early academic role.
- **University of Cambridge (Clare College)**: Research and teaching.
- **Princeton University**: Long-term affiliation, including a position at the **Institute for Advanced Study**.
- **Harvard University**: Visiting or temporary roles.

His career has been marked by a focus on **number theory**, particularly elliptic curves, modular forms, and Galois representations.

### Proof of Fermat's Last Theorem
Wiles' most famous achievement is his **proof of Fermat's Last Theorem**, published in 1995 in the paper *"Modular Elliptic Curves and Fermat's Last Theorem."* The theorem, conjectured by Pierre de Fermat in 1637, states that no three positive integers \(a\), \(b\), and \(c\) can satisfy the equation \(a^n + b^n = c^n\) for any integer \(n > 2\).

Wiles' proof relied on:
- **Modularity Theorem**: A conjecture that elliptic curves over the rational numbers are modular, meaning they are related to modular forms.
- **Galois Representations**: Techniques from algebraic number theory to study symmetries in number fields.
- **Iwasawa Theory**: A branch of number theory dealing with Galois groups and their structure.

The proof was initially presented in a series of lectures at the **Isaac Newton Institute for Mathematical Sciences** in 1993 but contained a critical gap. After a year of intensive work, Wiles and his former student **Richard Taylor** corrected the error, leading to the final publication in 1995.

### Awards and Honors
Wiles has received numerous awards for his contributions to mathematics:
- **Abel Prize (2016)**: Awarded by the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters for his proof of Fermat's Last Theorem.
- **Royal Medal (2016)**: Awarded by the Royal Society for his outstanding contributions to mathematics.
- **Copley Medal (2017)**: The Royal Society's oldest and most prestigious award.
- **Shaw Prize (2005)**: Recognizing his work in number theory.
- **Wolf Prize in Mathematics (1995/1996)**: For his proof of Fermat's Last Theorem.
- **Fermat Prize (1995)**: Awarded for his solution to Fermat's Last Theorem.
- **Ostrowski Prize (1995)**: For his work in number theory.
- **Cole Prize (1997)**: Awarded by the American Mathematical Society.
- **King Faisal International Prize in Science (1998)**: For his contributions to mathematics.
- **Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) (2000)**: For services to mathematics.

### Memberships and Fellowships
Wiles is a member of several prestigious academies and societies:
- **Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS)**
- **National Academy of Sciences (USA)**
- **French Academy of Sciences**
- **American Academy of Arts and Sciences**
- **Academia Europaea**
- **American Philosophical Society**
- **Royal Society of Canada**

### Influence and Legacy
Wiles' proof of Fermat's Last Theorem has had a lasting impact on mathematics:
- **Advanced Number Theory**: His work connected elliptic curves and modular forms, leading to new research directions.
- **Algebraic Geometry**: His techniques have been applied to other problems in the field.
- **Inspiration for Mathematicians**: His persistence in solving a centuries-old problem has inspired generations of researchers.

### Personal Life and Recognition
Wiles has been recognized not only for his mathematical achievements but also for his contributions to education and research. He has mentored numerous students and collaborators, ensuring the continued advancement of number theory. His work has been featured in documentaries and popular science media, bringing mathematics to a broader audience.

### Technical Identifiers
- **ORCID**: 0000-0001-1075-0153
- **VIAF**: 85443439
- **ISNI**: 0000 0001 1075 0153
- **GND**: 12010105X
- **LCCN**: n97052585
- **NDL**: 00970525
- **NKC**: xx0022578
- **BNF**: 126481808
- **SUDOC**: 0248293
- **MGP**: 69761
- **MFO**: I00701728
- **ZBMATH**: wiles.andrew-j
- **DBLP**: 3.0
- **MATH**: 12529
- **MR**: 391991
- **NTA**: 162482
- **PLWABN**: 9810594643305606
- **RERO**: 02-A003974454
- **SELIBR**: 242819
- **Trove**: 98040302
- **ULAN**: 500274547
- **Wikidata**: Q956583

### Notable Works
- *"Modular Elliptic Curves and Fermat's Last Theorem"* (1995): The landmark paper proving Fermat's Last Theorem.
- Contributions to **Iwasawa theory** and the **Birch and Swinnerton-Dyer conjecture**.

### Media and Public Appearances
Wiles' work has been featured in documentaries, including the BBC's *"Horizon"* series, which chronicled his journey to prove Fermat's Last Theorem. His story has also been covered in books and articles, making him one of the most well-known mathematicians of the modern era.

### Current Status
As of the latest available information, Wiles continues to be active in mathematical research and education, holding positions at leading institutions and contributing to the advancement of number theory. His legacy as the solver of Fermat's Last Theorem ensures his place in the history of mathematics.

## References

1. Encyclopædia Britannica Online
2. NNDB
3. Genealogics
4. [Sir Andrew Wiles awarded Copley Medal. London Mathematical Society](https://www.lms.ac.uk/news-entry/25052017-1700/sir-andrew-wiles-awarded-copley-medal)
5. [Andrew J. Wiles - Wolf Foundation. 2018](https://wolffund.org.il/2018/12/10/andrew-j-wiles/)
6. [Andrew Wiles](https://www.claymath.org/people/andrew-wiles/)
7. The London Gazette 55710
8. [Source](http://www.abelprisen.no/seksjon/vis.html?tid=67109)
9. [Mathematician Sir Andrew Wiles FRS wins the Royal Society’s prestigious Copley Medal. Royal Society](https://royalsociety.org/news/2017/05/mathematician-andrew-wiles-wins-royal-society-copley-medal/)
10. Guggenheim Fellows database
11. [Comm Cole](http://www.ams.org/notices/199703/comm-cole.pdf)
12. [2005 Mathematical Sciences](https://www.shawprize.org/laureates/2005-mathematical-sciences/)
13. [LMS Prizes 2019](https://www.claymath.org/events/news/lms-prizes-2019)
14. [Maryam Mirzakhani Prize in Mathematics](https://www.nasonline.org/programs/awards/mathematics.html)
15. [Sir Andrew Wiles appointed first Regius Professor of Mathematics at Oxford. University of Oxford. 2018](https://www.ox.ac.uk/news/2018-05-31-sir-andrew-wiles-appointed-first-regius-professor-mathematics-oxford)
16. [Andrew Wiles - The Mathematics Genealogy Project. Mathematics Genealogy Project](https://www.genealogy.math.ndsu.nodak.edu/id.php?id=9696)
17. Mathematics Genealogy Project
18. International Standard Name Identifier
19. MusicBrainz
20. [Academy of Europe: Wiles Andrew](https://www.ae-info.org/ae/User/Wiles_Andrew)
21. [APS Member History](https://search.amphilsoc.org/memhist/search?creator=Andrew+J.+Wiles&title=&subject=&subdiv=&mem=&year=&year-max=&dead=&keyword=&smode=advanced)
22. MacTutor History of Mathematics archive
23. Brockhaus Enzyklopädie
24. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
25. Integrated Authority File
26. Treccani's Enciclopedia on line
27. Quora
28. Enciclopedia Treccani
29. [Source](https://www.ae-info.org/ae/User/Wiles_Andrew)