Cut the Knot
Cut the Knot!: Fundamental Theorem of Algebra
Contains detailed historical information regarding the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra and the various proofs that were developed. Click on the links at the bottom of the page to access all the information.
Trinity College Dublin
The History of Mathematics: Roemer
A short biographical sketch of the life and work of Ole Roemer (1652-1719 CE). Identifies his scientific discoveries and contributions in astronomy.
Trinity College Dublin
The History of Mathematics: Young
A short sketch of the life and work of Thomas Young (1773-1829 CE). Traces early upbringing and education and his scientific discoveries and contributions.
Wolfram Research
Wolfram Math World: World's Most Extensive Mathematics Resource
MathWorld provides a huge mathematics encyclopedia detailing the concepts of geometry, algebra, calculus, discrete math, number theory, and other math topics--complete with formulas, diagrams, examples, and references for thorough...
Math Is Fun
Math Is Fun: The Evolution of Numbers
Discusses what numbers are and how our understanding of them has evolved over thousands of years, from simple counting to negative numbers and irrational numbers, for example. Includes a set of practice questions where students identify...
TED Talks
Ted: Ted Ed: A Brief History of Banned Numbers
Alessandra King details the history behind illegal numbers.
Other
History World: History of Greek Science
Presents the history of Greek science from the 6th century BC to the 2nd century AD. Navigate using the menu on the left. Covers major figures in science and mathematics, their theories and beliefs, and the influence they had, as well as...
Other
U of Cambridge: Tycho Brahe and the Separation of Astronomy From Astrology
The subject of the paper is the shift from an astrology-oriented astronomy towards an allegedly more objective, mathematically grounded approach to astronomy. This shift is illustrated through a close reading of Tycho Brahe's scientific...
Other
Furman University: Mathematical Quotations Server
This Ferman University site allows you to search for quotes by famous mathematicians. A site for peeking the interest of students and incorporating math history into the classroom. Also a good resource for math research projects.
University of St. Andrews (UK)
University of St. Andrews: Al Karaji
This mathematician contributed to many areas of mathematics, but most importantly he developed the formula to multiply exponents.
University of St. Andrews (UK)
University of St. Andrews: Hypsicles of Alexandria
This mathematician is remembered for his work on regular polyhedra. You can find more about the works of Hypsicles and other mathematicians at this site.
Smithsonian Institution
National Museum of American History: Slates, Slide Rules and Software
Did you learn to calculate using a 7-foot-long slide rule? Did you learn about the properties of numbers using brightly colored Cuisenaire rods? Ever wonder who invented the graph paper you used in geometry class? Go back to the...
TED Talks
Ted: Ted Ed: The Magic of Vedic Math
There is more than one way to reach a correct answer in mathematics. Vedic math, an ancient Indian method, sidesteps traditional computations in a manner that provides a shortcut, while being fun to use and to learn. Gaurav Tekriwal...
Internet History Sourcebooks Project
Fordham University: Modern History Sourcebook: Isaac Newton
This site from Fordham University links to excerpts of Newton's major works. Please scroll down to find the section on Newton titled "The Creation of Classical Physics." You will be able to actually read some of Newton's work! Read...
Wolfram Research
Wolfram Math World: History and Terminology Topics
Biographies of famous mathematicians, the history of math, math notation, and mathematical terminology are several of the topics explored by MathWorld. Each link takes the user to a site with extensive information, detailed sketches, and...
University of St. Andrews (UK)
University of St. Andrews: A Visit to James Clerk Maxwell's House
From the MacTutor History of Mathematics website, this page allows students to see the Edinburgh home of the 19th century Scottish physicist James Clerk Maxwell.
University of St. Andrews (UK)
University of St. Andrews: Emmy Amalie Noether
The School of Mathematics and Statistics of St. Andrew's University provides biographical information on the mathematical career of Emmy Noether. Included are links to other famous individuals with whom she worked and links to her topics...
University of St. Andrews (UK)
University of St. Andrews: Biography of Thomas Muir
The School of Mathematics and Statistics of St. Andrew's University provides biographical information on the mathematical career of Thomas Muir. Included are links to other famous individuals with whom he worked and links to his topics...
University of St. Andrews (UK)
University of St. Andrews: Biography of Jacob Bernoulli
The School of Mathematics and Statistics of St. Andrew's University provides biographical information on the mathematical career of Jacob Bernoulli. Included are links to other famous individuals with whom he worked and links to his...
University of St. Andrews (UK)
University of St. Andrews: Eudoxus of Cnidus
This page provides an excellent biography of Eudoxus of Cnidus, an ancient Greek astronomer and mathematician. Discusses his life, travels, and contributions to the field of mathematics. Includes special links.
Other
History of Islamic Science 3: The Time of Al Razi
In-depth look at Islamic society during the time of al-Razi. Discusses "Arabic Mathematics and Astronomy," "Muslim Alchemy and Physics," "Muslim Medicine," and several well-known individuals such as al-Mahani, inb Yusuf, al-Nairizi, ibn...
Illustrative Mathematics
Illustrative Mathematics: F Le Dido and the Foundation of Carthage
According to ancient legend, Dido made a deal with a local ruler to obtain as much land as she could cover with an oxhide. Dido interpreted "cover" in an imaginative way and the land she obtained became the site of the important ancient...
University of St. Andrews (UK)
University of St. Andrews: Greek Number Systems
A comprehensive discussion of Greek number systems of the first millennium BC, including acrophonic and alphabetical. Includes examples demonstrating the lack of a truly unified system among the Greek islands.
Wikimedia
Wikipedia: Timeline of Mathematics
Wikipedia gives a timeline of all of the important mathematical accomplishments from 2400 BC to 2002. Most names and concepts are linked to further information specific to that person or idea.