1540?-1616

German Alchemist

The alchemist Andreas Libavius is often considered the author of the first chemistry textbook. Contrary to the beliefs of many alchemists, he promoted the idea that the scientific discoveries should be shared openly, rather than kept secret.

Libavius was born in about 1540 in Halle, Germany, where his father was a linen weaver. At this time, children of working class parents were rarely allowed to attend universities. Usually, the only people to receive an advanced education were those who had been born into wealthy families. Despite his family's background, Libavius began attending the University of Wittenberg at the age of eighteen. This fact suggests to historians that he must have shown signs of great intelligence and been very determined to receive an education.

Libavius later attended the University of Jena, where he studied history, philosophy, and medicine. He completed his medical degree there in...