Used with
permission of Maiken Naylor, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA,
http://ublib.buffalo.edu/libraries/units/sel/exhibits/stamps
James Clerk Maxwell (1831-79) derived mathematically the four equations that describe the interaction and relationship between electricity and magnetism as already observed by Faraday, and which are the foundation of electromagnetic theory. Maxwell's equations are the basis of all modern communication: they apply to all electromagnetic radiation, be they TV, radio, radar, light, or x-rays. The Nicaraguan stamp shows a transmission tower superimposed on a dish antenna and spherically emanating waves. Maxwell shares honors with Hertz on the Mexican stamp which commemorates global telecommunications.