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Mathematical Treasure: Mesopotamian Accounting Tokens

Mesopotamian accounting evolved from simple clay token counters to a number-recording system that included impressions of these tokens on clay tablets.

Euler's Investigations on the Roots of Equations

This is a translation of and discussion of an article of Leonhard Euler in which he attempts to prove the fundamental theorem of algebra. In addition, he discusses in detail his understanding of the nature of complex numbers.

Mathematical Treasure: The Quipu

A collection of illustrations of Inca quipus, with references to their earliest descriptions.

Using Historical Problems in the Middle School

Historical Problems can be used to enliven any mathematics class. Here are some examples from medieval times, from a 19th century American textbook, and from a 19th century Armenian textbook, among other sources.

Benjamin Franklin's Numbers: An Unsung Mathematical Odyssey

A thorough study of Benjamin Franklin's mathematical accomplishments, in particular his work on magic squares.

Pyramid Calculation

Given a pyramid 300 cubits high, with a square base 500 cubits to a side, determine the distance from the center of any side of the base to the apex.

Animal Customs

A fox, a wild-cat, and a hound pass through customs and together pay 111 coins.

To Each His Due

A man has four creditors. To the first he owes 624 ducats; to the second, 546; to the third, 492; and to the fourth 368.

Area of a Polygon

Prove that the area of a regular polygon can be given by the product of its perimeter and half the radius of the inscribed circle.

A Modern Vision of the Work of Cardano and Ferrari on Quartics

A study of the solution of quartic equations in Cardano's Ars Magna and in the work of Euler and Descartes.