Course Description
This course will present an overview of the development of mathematics from ancient civilizations to the beginning of the 19th century. Selected topics from the history of mathematics in China, India, Europe, and the Islamic world, including number systems, Euclidean geometry, algebra, combinatorics, and calculus. Recurrent themes include calculation of areas and volumes, finding zeros of polynomials, progressive enlargement of number systems, and changing concepts of rigorous proof.
Prerequisites: Math 250 and Calc III (Math 251 or Math 291)
This course may include oral or written presentations of selected topics by students. However, it does not satisfy writing requirements for the SAS core curriculum.
Textbook
For current textbook, please refer to our Master Textbook List page
Previous Semesters
- Spring 2026: Kiessling
- Spring 2025: Retakh
- Fall 2021: Zeilberger