The Newtonian Epoch in the American Colonies (1680-1783).

The article focuses on the intellectual history of the United States between 1680 and 1783 as influenced by English Enlightenment polymath Sir Isaac Newton and philosopher John Locke. The influence of the 1687 book "The Mathematical Principles of Natural Philosophy," by Newton upon the religious sermons of Massachusetts minister Cotton Mather is discussed. The author considers how the writings of Newton influenced the academic programs, especially the study of mathematics, at Harvard College in the early 1700s. Also discussed are Massachusetts astronomer John Winthrop IV (1714-1779), the establishment of the American Philosophical Society, and Pennsylvania mathematician James Logan (1674-1751).