Mathematical Thought from Ancient to Modern Times

This comprehensive history traces the development of mathematical ideas and the careers of the mathematicians responsible for them. Volume 1 looks at the discipline's origins in Babylon and Egypt, the creation of geometry and trigonometry by the Greeks, and the role of mathematics in the medieval and early modern periods. Volume 2 focuses on calculus, the rise of analysis in the 19th century, and the number theories of Dedekind and Dirichlet. The concluding volume covers the revival of projective geometry, the emergence of abstract algebra, the beginnings of topology, and the influence of Godel on recent mathematical study.

I have always had great regard for this book as the one which relates the development of modern mathematical ideas in a readable fashion.--Michael F. O'Reilly, University of Minnesota in Morris

Outstanding scholarship and readability. One of only a couple of books available in English for in-depth historical studies at the fourth year/graduate level.--Charles V. Jones, Ball State University

The consistently high quality of presentation, the accuracy, the readable style, and the stress on the conceptual development of mathematics make [these volumes] a most desirable reference.--Choice

Without a doubt a book which should be in the library of every institution where mathematics is either taught or played.--The Economist

What must be the definitive history of mathematical thought....Probably the most comprehensive account of mathematical history we have yet had.--Saturday Review