Student Article

Leonardo da Vinci was one of the most amazing people in history.

Leonardo da Vinci’s early life and education

Born in 1452 in Vinci, Italy, he grew up to become not just a famous painter, but also an inventor, engineer, and scientist. Even as a boy, Leonardo showed great artistic talent. At age 14, he was sent to the workshop of Andrea del Verrocchio in Florence. There, he learned to paint, sculpt, and design.

Leonardo’s achievements in art

Leonardo became known for his skill in painting people’s emotions and using shadows and light in lifelike ways. One of his early works was The Annunciation, which showed his deep interest in light, nature, and beauty. Other famous paintings include The Last Supper, showing Jesus and his followers at their final meal, and the Mona Lisa, famous for her mysterious smile. But art was only part of Leonardo’s genius.

Leonardo’s curiosity and inventions

Leonardo was curious about everything. He kept notebooks full of drawings and ideas. He studied human anatomy by examining bodies, trying to learn how muscles and bones worked. He also imagined new inventions. Long before airplanes were built, he designed a flying machine. He also sketched ideas for tanks, bridges, and even underwater gear.

Leonardo’s work in Milan and beyond

In 1482, Leonardo moved to Milan and worked for Duke Ludovico Sforza. There, he worked on war inventions and art projects. Later, he moved from city to city, always creating and thinking. He spent his final years in France working for King Francis I.

Leonardo’s legacy

Leonardo died in 1519, but his notebooks and ideas were discovered hundreds of years later. Today, people still admire his creativity and imagination. His mix of art, science, and invention helped shape the future — and shows us what the mind of a true genius looks like.

© Marina Wallace / www.historyextra.com