Marston Morse (1892-1977) was an influential American mathematician renowned for his work in differential topology and the creation of what is now known as [[Morse theory]]. His groundbreaking contributions have had lasting impacts on several areas of mathematics, including dynamical systems, mathematical analysis, and topology. ### Early Life and Education Harold Calvin Marston Morse was born on March 24, 1892, in Waterville, Maine. He pursued his undergraduate studies at Colby College in his hometown, graduating in 1914. Morse then went on to complete his Ph.D. at Harvard University in 1917, where he focused on functional analysis under the guidance of George David Birkhoff, a prominent American mathematician. ### Career and Contributions After completing his doctorate, Morse held various academic positions, including roles at Cornell University and Brown University, before joining the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton in 1935, where he remained for the rest of his career. Morse's most notable contribution, Morse theory, was developed in the 1930s. Morse theory provides a powerful tool for understanding the topology of manifolds by studying the critical points of smooth functions defined on them. This theory has become fundamental in mathematical physics, symplectic geometry, and dynamical systems. It laid the groundwork for later developments in topology and was a precursor to many ideas in modern global analysis. ### Thue-Morse Sequence Marston Morse is also co-credited with the [[Prouhet-Thue-Morse sequence]], an infinite binary sequence that avoids simple repetitions. This sequence has applications and implications in various fields of mathematics and theoretical computer science. However, Morse's primary contributions and fame lie in Morse theory and its applications. ### Awards and Honors Morse received numerous accolades throughout his career, reflecting his profound impact on mathematics. These include the National Medal of Science awarded by President Nixon in 1964 and the Bôcher Memorial Prize from the American Mathematical Society in 1929, one of the highest honors in American mathematics, recognizing his outstanding contributions to analysis. ### Legacy Marston Morse passed away on June 22, 1977, leaving behind a rich legacy in mathematics. His work continues to influence various fields, and he is remembered not only for his mathematical genius but also for his role as a mentor to many students who went on to have distinguished careers in mathematics. Morse theory, in particular, remains a vibrant area of research and application, illustrating the enduring impact of his work. # References ```dataview Table title as Title, authors as Authors where contains(authors, "Marston Morse" ) or contains(subject, "Marston Morse" ) or contains(subject, "Morse Theory") sort modified desc, subject, title ```