Benoit Michel

Benoit Michel a learned French Jesuit missionary, was born at Aututn, Oct. 8, 1715. He studied especially mathematics, astronomy, and physics, and departed for China in 1745. He executed several hydraulic works which the emperor Kien-Long intrusted to him, and made known to this prince the telescope, the pneumatic machine, the graving-tool, etc. These sciences aided him in accomplishing his object, which was the conversion of the people. At his death, which occurred Oct. 25 1774, the Christians of Pekin mourned for him, and the emperor Kien-Long keenly lamented him. See Hoefer, Nouv. Biog. Generale, s.v.; Landon, Eccles. Dict. s.v.; Biog. Universelle, s.v.