Where did numbers and the math system come from?
If we go back in time, numbers and the system of mathematics were not always present, but were developed by many people in many places. It took creativity to develop and test out this new field. Even today, when much is known about math, more discoveries are being made by people willing to think beyond what is known.
Early mathematics
The concept of numbers and number systems were developed in a variety of different places and for a variety of purposes in ancient times. Each system required someone to create a new way of thinking about quantities. Did you know that the number 0 was not used until well after the other numbers were developed? Watch the video below to learn about the early development of mathematics
Focusing on 1 and 0...
Taken from The Story of One, the two segments below tell, with a touch of humor, part of the history of the numbers 1 and 0.
Saving the best (or maybe the most comprehensive) for last...
Feast your eyes on 27,000 years of creative math history. Yes, it's even more exciting than it sounds!
Welcome to the Math Family Tree. Click on any item for a short description. If you want to dig deeper, you can go to the Mathematics Illuminated site.
Welcome to the Math Family Tree. Click on any item for a short description. If you want to dig deeper, you can go to the Mathematics Illuminated site.