Who Was Alive in 1639

Galileo GalileiAge 75

1564–1642 · Science & Invention

Father of modern observational astronomy

René DescartesAge 43

1596–1650 · Philosophy & Thought

"I think, therefore I am"

Oliver CromwellAge 40

1599–1658 · Politics & Leadership

Lord Protector of England

RembrandtAge 33

1606–1669 · Art

Dutch Golden Age master painter

MolièreAge 17

1622–1673 · Literature

French playwright and actor

John LockeAge 7

1632–1704 · Philosophy & Thought

Father of liberalism

Johannes VermeerAge 7

1632–1675 · Art

Girl with a Pearl Earring

Christopher WrenAge 7

1632–1723 · Art

Architect of St Paul's Cathedral

Louis XIVAge 1

1638–1715 · Politics & Leadership

The Sun King of France