Guglielmo Libri Carucci dalla Sommaja was born on January 2nd, 1803

Written by: Liam O'Sullivan

The Notorious Count: Guglielmo Libri Carucci dalla Sommaja

Guglielmo Libri Carucci dalla Sommaja, an Italian count and mathematician, is infamous for his remarkable dual life as a respected scholar and a notorious thief of ancient manuscripts. Libri's love for precious texts led him to steal over 30,000 books and manuscripts, earning him a reputation as one of the most prolific literary thieves in history.

Early Life and Education

Born on January 1, 1803, in Florence, Italy, Libri was a child prodigy who entered the University of Pisa at the age of 13. He initially studied law but soon shifted his focus to mathematics, graduating in 1820. His early works caught the attention of prominent mathematicians such as Charles Babbage, Augustin-Louis Cauchy, and Carl Friedrich Gauss.

Rise to Prominence

In 1823, at just 20 years old, Libri became a Professor of Mathematical Physics at Pisa, but his teaching stint was short-lived. He went on sabbatical leave in 1824 and traveled to Paris, where he befriended influential French mathematicians like Sophie Germain, Pierre-Simon Laplace, Siméon Poisson, André-Marie Ampère, Joseph Fourier, and François Arago.

The Theft of the Century

After becoming a French citizen in 1833, Libri was appointed Inspector of Libraries in France, a position that gave him access to the country's most valuable literary treasures. Over the course of several years, he systematically stole thousands of manuscripts and books, hiding them in 18 trunks. When his theft was discovered, Libri fled to England, leaving behind a trail of scandal and betrayal.

The Consequences of Deceit

Libri was sentenced to 10 years in prison in absentia by the French authorities. Although some of the stolen works were returned after his death, many remained missing, leaving a lasting stain on his reputation. Despite his remarkable mathematical contributions, Libri's legacy is forever marred by his crimes against the literary world.

Career Highlights and Major Works

• Published several works on mathematics, including "Calcolo delle probabilità" and "Théorie des erreurs"
• Became a member of the Academy of Sciences and was awarded the Légion d'honneur
• Appointed Professor of Mathematical Physics at Pisa and later became a professor at the Collège de France

Philosophical Contributions and Beliefs

Libri's mathematical work focused on probability theory, calculus, and astronomy. He was particularly interested in the application of mathematical principles to social and political phenomena. Despite his intellectual pursuits, his philosophical legacy is overshadowed by his illegal activities.

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

• Entered the University of Pisa in 1816
• Graduated in 1820
• Traveled to Paris in 1824
• Became a French citizen in 1833
• Fled to England after his theft was discovered

Influence on Modern Society

Libri's mathematical contributions, although significant, are largely forgotten in light of his criminal activities. However, his actions serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the importance of ethical conduct in the pursuit of knowledge.

Legacy and Historical Context

Guglielmo Libri Carucci dalla Sommaja's dual life as a respected scholar and a notorious thief serves as a reminder of the complexities of human nature. His actions have left an indelible mark on the literary world, highlighting the need for accountability and transparency in the pursuit of knowledge.

Trivia and Fun Facts

• Libri was known for his charisma and charm, which helped him gain access to restricted libraries and manuscripts.
• He was a member of the secret society of the Carbonari, which aimed to advocate for a liberal constitution in the Grand Duchy of Tuscany.

Guglielmo Libri Carucci dalla Sommaja's story serves as a fascinating yet cautionary tale about the consequences of unchecked ambition and the importance of ethical conduct in the pursuit of knowledge.