Joseph Priestley was born on March 13, 1733, in Birstall, West Yorkshire, England. He initially studied theology and became a dissenting minister, serving various congregations in England.

While working as a minister, Priestley pursued his interest in natural philosophy and experimental science. He conducted extensive experiments with gases and is credited with the discovery of several, including oxygen (which he called “dephlogisticated air”) in 1774. His work laid the foundation for the modern understanding of gases and their properties.

Due to his controversial political and religious views, Priestley faced persecution in England. In 1791, his home and laboratory were destroyed by a mob during the Birmingham Riots. In 1794, he emigrated to the United States, where he continued his scientific and philosophical pursuits.

During his time in the United States, Priestley continued his scientific experiments and writings. He also became involved in education, teaching at the University of Pennsylvania. Priestley died on February 6, 1804, in Northumberland, Pennsylvania.

Priestley’s contributions to the understanding of gases and his experiments with different substances greatly influenced the development of chemistry. He also made significant contributions to the fields of electricity and optics. Additionally, Priestley was an influential political and religious thinker, advocating for religious tolerance, democratic governance, and individual liberty. His ideas influenced many thinkers of his time and played a role in shaping the intellectual climate of the Enlightenment era.