Mathematics wasn’t invented by a single person—it evolved over time, shaped by the needs, curiosity, and brilliance of countless individuals across cultures. Its origins can be traced back to the ancient world, where early civilizations began using numbers and patterns to solve real-life problems.
Ancient Beginnings
Two of the earliest contributors to mathematics were the Babylonians and Egyptians, who developed foundational concepts long before modern math took shape:
- Babylonians: Introduced a base-60 number system—an innovation that still echoes in how we measure time (60 seconds, 60 minutes) and angles (360 degrees in a circle).
- Egyptians: Applied arithmetic and geometry to engineering marvels like the pyramids, showcasing an impressive understanding of measurements and proportions.
Pioneers Who Shaped Mathematics
As centuries passed, key figures emerged who transformed math from practical tools into a structured discipline:
- Pythagoras: A Greek mathematician best known for the Pythagorean Theorem, a fundamental concept in geometry.
- Euclid: Dubbed the “Father of Geometry,” he compiled The Elements, one of the most influential works in mathematical history.
- Archimedes: Made lasting contributions to geometry, calculus, and physics, including the famous principle of buoyancy.
A Global Collaboration
Mathematics is a universal language born not in one place, but everywhere. Its growth has been a global journey:
- Civilizations across the world—Greek, Indian, Chinese, Arab, and many others—have each enriched the field with unique insights and discoveries.
- From ancient counting systems to modern equations, math has grown through shared knowledge, innovation, and human imagination.
Mathematics is not the product of a single mind, but a masterpiece created collectively over millennia. It’s a reflection of how humans everywhere have sought to understand their world—one number, one formula, one discovery at a time.
Name : Prashant Johri
Department : Maths JEE
Narayana Jaipur Center (NIHQ)