Abel, Niels Henrik (1802–1829) Norwegian mathematician Abel was born in Froland, the son of a poor pastor; he was educated in mathematics at the University of Christiana (Oslo). After the death of his father, Abel had to support a large family; he earned what he could by private teaching and was also helped out by his teacher. He was eventually given a grant by the Norwegian government to make a trip to France and Germany to visit mathematicians. In Germany he met the engineer and mathematician August Crelle, who was to be of great assistance to him. Crelle published Abel's work and exerted what influence he could to obtain him a post in Germany. Tragically Abel died just ...