Archimedes is born in Syracuse, a Greek colony in Sicily. His father is likely Phidias, an astronomer. This early environment, potentially steeped in intellectual curiosity and astronomical observation, likely contributes to his later scientific pursuits.

Specific details of his early education are scarce, but it is believed he received a thorough education, likely including mathematics, geometry, and possibly astronomy. He may have been exposed to the works of earlier mathematicians like Euclid and Pythagoras.

There is evidence suggesting that Archimedes may have studied in Alexandria, Egypt, a major center of learning in the Hellenistic world. Alexandria housed the famous Library and Museum, providing access to a vast collection of knowledge and interaction with other scholars. He corresponded with scholars in Alexandria, and his mathematical methods suggest familiarity with the Alexandrian school.

Archimedes returns to Syracuse and dedicates himself to mathematical research, invention, and engineering. He likely lived a relatively private life, focused on his studies and experiments, possibly supported by his family or patronage.

Archimedes is killed during the Roman siege of Syracuse in the Second Punic War. The circumstances of his death are debated, with accounts suggesting he was either killed by a Roman soldier while engrossed in a mathematical problem or while surrendering. His death is a significant loss to the scientific world.