Despite the huge economic importance of his discovery , he received little recognition during his life .
Philippe Thomas ( 4 May 1843 -- 12 February 1910 ) was a French veterinarian and amateur geologist who discovered large deposits of phosphates in Tunisia .
Despite the huge economic importance of Philippe Thomas ' discovery , Philippe Thomas received little recognition during his life .
Philippe Thomas ( 4 May 1843 -- 12 February 1910 ) was a French veterinarian and amateur geologist who discovered large deposits of phosphates in Tunisia .