The Mathematics of Great Amateurs [Paperback]

This unique history surveys the mathematical contributions of numerous individuals noted mainly for their groundbreaking activities in other fields. It evaluates the discoveries of such luminaries as Plato, Leonardo da Vinci, Omar Khayyam, Jan de Witt, Denis Diderot, William George Horner, Antoine Arnauld, and many others, providing fascinating information on their lives and circumstances. The book also includes a valuable introductory essay by Professor Jeremy Gray, who comments on changes that have taken place in the study of history and mathematics since the initial publication of this classic work in 1949.

1. Plato
2. Omar Khayyam
3. Pietro dei Francesci
4. Leonardo de Vinci
5. Albrecht Durer
6. John Napier, Baron of Merchiston
7. Blaise Pascal
8. Antoine Arnauld
9. Jan de Witt
10. Johann Heinrich Hudd
11. William, Viscount Brouncker
12. Guillaume L' Hospital, Marquis de Sainte-Mesme
13. Buffon
14. Denis Diderot
15. William George Horner
16. Bernard Bolzano

The level of Professor Coolidge's scholarship is high, the style is lucid, and the work is enjoyable reading. --Nature

Professor Coolidge has added yet another book to delight mathematicians. --Isis

Coolidge's book has become a minor classic, not just for its historical erudition but also for its clear, informal style. --American Scientist

The reader will find a good deal here.The Mathematics of Great Amateurshas stood the test of time to become an essential reference on the shelf of every working historian of mathematics. It remains a delightful `read' for the general mathematician with even a passing interest in the development of the subject.

The Mathematics of Great Amateures(Coolidge) is great fun. Coolidge discusses the contributions of many folks, including Omar Khayyam, Da Vinci, Pascal, De Witt (apparently the first to make a careful study of annuitlÃ#