Who Was Alive in 1640

Galileo GalileiAge 76

1564–1642 · Science & Invention

Father of modern observational astronomy

René DescartesAge 44

1596–1650 · Philosophy & Thought

"I think, therefore I am"

Oliver CromwellAge 41

1599–1658 · Politics & Leadership

Lord Protector of England

RembrandtAge 34

1606–1669 · Art

Dutch Golden Age master painter

MolièreAge 18

1622–1673 · Literature

French playwright and actor

John LockeAge 8

1632–1704 · Philosophy & Thought

Father of liberalism

Johannes VermeerAge 8

1632–1675 · Art

Girl with a Pearl Earring

Christopher WrenAge 8

1632–1723 · Art

Architect of St Paul's Cathedral

Louis XIVAge 2

1638–1715 · Politics & Leadership

The Sun King of France