Great Moments in Mathematics: Before 1650 is the product of a series of lectures on the history of mathematics given by Howard Eves. He presents here, in chronological order, 20 ``great moments in mathematics before 1650'', which can be appreciated by anyone who enjoys mathematics. These wonderful lectures could be used as the basis of a course on the history of mathematics but can also serve as enrichment to any mathematics course. Included are lectures on the Pythagorean Theorem, Euclid's Elements, Archimedes (on the sphere), Diophantus, Omar Khayyam, and Fibonacci.

[V.2] This is a companion to Great moments in mathematics before 1650. It can be appreciated by anyone with a working knowledge of beginning deferential and integral calculus. Includes: the birth of mathematical probability, the invention of the differential calculus, the discovery of non-Euclidean geometry, the discovery of noncommutative algebra, and the resolution of the four-color problem.

What a splendid addition this is to the Dolciani Mathematical Exposition series! This second set of lectures on great moments in mathematics (after 1650) is a fascinating collection of pivotal points in the historical development of mathematics...The four lectures devoted to the liberation of geometry and algebra are of particular interest. The lectures should be required reading for all teachers of mathematics. —Herbert Fremont, The Mathematics Teacher Eves is never less than tantalizing and usually inspiring...each 'great moment' has detailed exercises following it, as these have been carefully chosen to illustrate the depth of the ideas in question. —C. W. Kilmister, The London Times, Higher Education Supplement As is usual with Eves' work, the books are well written and entertaining. They give an historical background to many of the best known mathematical results, and, in addition, provide interesting pieces of information about the mathematicians involved. Eves includes relevant exercises at the end of each chapter. These are a good source of different, interesting problems, and when combined with the material in the chapter, could form the basis for a mathematical project...Eves' book provides an interesting, well-written, and enjoyable account. You won't be disappointed. —David Parrott, The Australian Mathematics Teacher

From bestselling author of Fermat's Last Theorem, a must-have for number lovers and Simpsons fans

A brilliant introduction to the pleasures of mathematical thinking, this book attempts to convey to general readers the feeling of eureka--the joy of discovery--that mathematicians feel when they first encounter an elegant truth. 92 line illustrations.