ALGEBRA IN ANTIQUITY

Algebra is an outgrowth of arithmetic and geometry. It is, usually, concerned with the calculation of an unknown quantity from the known data. Although a misnomer, algebra forms a bridge to join history of mathematics in Asia and Europe. H. T. Colebrooke (1837), in his famous work entitled “Dissertation on Algebra of Hindus”, claims that Greeks were the first to discover solution of first degree equations and this knowledge was passed to hindus by their Greek instructors. He states that Diophantus (A.D. 250) of Alexandria was the author of a book in arithmetic comprised of thirteen parts of which six survive. The first of these deals with the theory of numbers and includes an algebraical treatment of arithmetical problems.

Arthur A. Macdonell, on the other hand, asserts that during the 8th and 9th centuries Hindus became the teachers of the Arabs in arithmetic and algebra, and through them of the western nations.

A number of twentieth century writers on history of mathematics, including F. Cajori, D.E. Smith, E.T. Bell, B.B. Datta and A.N. Singh and Swami Satya Prakash Sarawati maintain that Aryabhat (499 A.D.) was the founder of algebra in India.

In the proposed lectures our aim is to discuss in detail the origin of algebra on this planet and its expansion in Asia and Eurpoe.