Francesco Faà di Bruno received his doctorate in mathematical sciences at the University of Paris under Augustine Cauchy’s direction. That same year he published his two dissertations, one in mathematics and one in astronomy. The intellectual climate of Turin’s universities at the time, which was unfavorable to Catholicism, kept him from being appointed to the Chair of Higher Analysis at the University of Turin until 1876. He was an exceptionally prominent figure in the 19th century and in Piedmontese Catholicism. In addition to being a university professor, he was a musician, and he also founded and implemented social works and scientific research and journalism projects. On September 25, 1988, Pope John Paul II declared him Blessed.