Anthony Michaelis' article "Our Unknown Martyrs" (The Scientist, February 9, 1987, p. 13) listed several famous scientists who "gave their lives" for science. I wish to point out that Lavoisier's demise was a consequence of his unpopular occupation as fermier general. He was one of many financiers who had purchased the right to collect taxes, most likely at a profit, and who were executed en masse by Ia Republique in 1794.
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