The Ancient Greek Philosopher Anaximander of Miletus
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Anaximander holding a sundial from a third century AD Roman mosaic.
Anaximander of Miletus was a student and associate of the first philosopher, Thales, in the ancient Greek city of Miletus. Anaximander has been credited with many accomplishments: the introduction of the gnomon into Greek culture and the set up of a sundial in Sparta; first to mark the solstices and equinoxes; first to draw an outline of the earth and sea; and first to define the Indefinite (or apeiron) as the principle and fundamental element of nature. He was also the first of the Greeks to write a book in prose, which, except for a small fragment, has been lost to history. His work was not limited to science and philosophy; he was also involved in politics and was the leader of one the Milesian colonies.