Kernel
Faraday is the experimentalist who built modern electromagnetism without any university mathematics. Apprenticed as a bookbinder, hired by Humphry Davy as a lab assistant, he discovers electromagnetic induction (1831), magneto-optical rotation, the field concept (later mathematized by Maxwell), and benzene. By the time he dies, his discoveries underlie the electrical industry that will rebuild the world.
Contribution
Electromagnetic induction → every electric generator and motor in existence. The field as a concept rather than as a calculational device. Faraday's law. The first electric motor (1821). Chemistry contributions including benzene's discovery and electrochemistry's quantitative foundation (Faraday's laws of electrolysis).
Lineage
Royal Institution under Davy; Maxwell mathematizes his field concept (1865). Tesla and Edison build industries on his discoveries; the entire 1880s–1930s electrification of the world is, technically, Faraday's lineage.
Civilization-scale significance
The single most influential experimentalist of the 19th century. The fact that he did this without mathematical training has shaped the self-image of every working scientist who is suspicious of theory.