Mathematical Treasure: Ludlam's Rudiments of Mathematics

Author(s):

Frank J. Swetz (The Pennsylvania State University)

William Ludlam (1717-1788) was a clergyman in the Church of England and a mathematician. He wrote broadly on various scientific subjects as well as commenting on Newton’s work. His Rudiments of Mathematics (1785) was written for university students as an introduction to mathematics. The text was popular and employed in teaching for many years. These images are from the fifth edition of 1809.

Title page of Rudiments of Mathematics by William Ludlam, 1809 edition

The author explained his objectives and intent for his book in his “Preface.”

First page of Preface to Rudiments of Mathematics by William Ludlam, 1809 edition

Second page of Preface to Rudiments of Mathematics by William Ludlam, 1809 edition

Third page of Preface to Rudiments of Mathematics by William Ludlam, 1809 edition

Michael Fryer, the editor of this edition, wrote that he added "numerous Examples," along with views of contemporary mathematicians on the "theory of Equations" of the day.

Editor's Advertisement to Rudiments of Mathematics by William Ludlam, 1809 edition