Abstract:
Richard von Mises was one of the most influential applied mathematicians and mechanicians in the 20th century. The von Mises yield criterion proposed in 1913 stands as a classical theoretical achievement of modern plasticity mechanics and remains the core basis for finite element analysis software to determine material yielding. His frequentist probability theory and the concept of "Kollektiv" (collective) exerted a significant influence on the foundational research of probability theory, and his aerodynamic theories advanced early aircraft design. This paper systematically reviews Mises's life experiences and academic contributions, presenting a complete portrait of a scientific giant who tightly integrated mathematical rigor with engineering practice.