While Archimedes did not invent the lever, he gave an explanation of the principle involved in his work On the Equilibrium of Planes. According to Pappus of Alexandria, Archimedes' work on levers caused him to remark: "Give me a place to stand on, and I will move the Earth." Archimedes of Syracuse (287-212 BC) was a Greek mathematician, physicist, engineer, inventor, and astronomer. Few details of his life are known, but he is regarded as one of the leading scientists in classical antiquity. Among his advances in physics are the foundations of hydrostatics, statics and an explanation of the principle of the lever. He is credited with designing innovative machines, including siege engines and the screw pump that bears his name. Archimedes is considered to be the greatest mathematician of antiquity and one of the greatest of all time. Archimedes died during the Siege of Syracuse when he was killed by a Roman soldier despite orders that he should not be harmed.