Description
Book SynopsisIntended for undergraduate mathematics students and teachers, How it All Began provides an introduction to the history of various branches of mathematics, the lives of the mathematicians, and the challenges they faced_which helped lead them to their mathematical discoveries. Written in a slightly more technical style than typical histories of mathematics, this book brings the ''characters'' of mathematics to life while prompting analysis into the meaning and practice of their mathematical discoveries. How it All Began explores the great Greek legacy, Indian arithmetic, Integral Calculus, the Analytic Geometry of Rene Descartes, Differential Calculus, the Non-Commutative Algebra of Hamilton, the arithmetization of analysis, and the beginnings of Algebra. Using a topical organization method, How it All Began is a perfect supplement to standard mathematics texts and classroom instruction focused on specific subject matter.
Trade ReviewThis little book is an interesting...view of the history of mathematics. Wagh (deceased) chronicles the development of mathematics by examining the motivations and content of various branches as they evolved. Summing Up: Optional. General readers; upper-division undergraduates. -- R. L. Pour, Emory and Henry College * CHOICE *
Table of Contents1 Preface Chapter 2 The Great Greek Legacy Chapter 3 The Indian Arithmetic: Its Entry and Acceptance in Europe Chapter 4 The Method of Integral Calculus Chapter 5 Analytic Geometry of Rene Descartes Chapter 6 The Method of Differential Calculus Chapter 7 The First Non-Commutative Algebra Chapter 8 Arithmetization of Analysis Chapter 9 Beginnings of Algebra 10 Answers
