Which of these three scientists will go on the 10-pound?
The Royal Bank of Scotland has narrowed its list of faces to put on the new polymer 10-pound note down to three scientists. According to this statement the two men and one woman are: James Clerk Maxwell, Mary Somerville and Thomas Telford.
"More than 400 people took part in the selection of the 128 nominees, who had to be Scottish historical figures or people who had made a major contribution to Scotland in science and innovation.
Maxwell (1831-1879), a hero of Albert Einstein, discovered the unified theory of electricity and magnetism.
Somerville (1780-1872) was a pioneer as a female scientist when women’s participation was discouraged. Her writings ultimately led to the discovery of the planet Neptune.
Telford (1757-1843) built more than 1,000 miles of roads in his lifetime and in Scotland designed harbors, tunnels and the Caledonian Canal."
I'll put my money on mrs. Somerville. They could all go on the new banknote of course but I think Mary Somerville is the most politically correct choice to make, which seems to matter these days on the British isles.
three comments
Thank you Steven for the correction.
The RBS announced today, that Mary Somerville to appear on the next 10 Pound note.
Following concerns over a huge influx of last minute votes for Thomas Telford from outside of the UK, RBS decided to choose Mary Somerville as the winner. Somerville had been the clear leader throughout the process with the vast majority of her votes coming from the UK.
The new notes will be issued in the second half of 2017.
It is the Royal Bank of Scotland that asked the public who should be featured on their new 10 Pound note, NOT the Bank of Scotland.
I voted for Mrs Somerville.