Astronomical arguments in Newton's Chronology

TL;DR

Newton's use of astronomical evidence in his Chronology aimed to support a revised ancient timeline, but these claims have been heavily debated and largely discredited over time, yet they remain historically significant.

Contribution

This paper analyzes Newton's astronomical arguments in his Chronology and discusses their historical impact and subsequent scientific critique.

Findings

Newton's astronomical evidence was initially influential.

Debates have undermined the credibility of Newton's assumptions.

Newton's prestige remained despite scientific criticisms.

Abstract

In his Chronology, Newton uses astronomical "evidence" to support its extreme rejuvenation of ancient times. These elements, having a scientific varnish, provide some credibility to the work. They have been fiercely debated for a century, with a gradual undermining of Newton's assumptions. However, this has not dented the prestige of the English scientist. ----- Dans sa Chronologie, Newton utilise des "preuves" astronomiques pour appuyer son rajeunissement extreme des epoques anciennes. Ces elements, au vernis scientifique, donnent une credibilite certaine a l'ensemble. Ils ont donc ete aprement discutes, les debats sapant petit a petit les hypotheses du savant anglais pour finalement porter un coup mortel a l'ensemble. Cela n'a toutefois pas entame le prestige du savant anglais.