Mathematics in Nineteenth-Century America: The Bowditch Generation - Paperback

by Todd Timmons (Author)

The first third of the nineteenth century was the formative period for American mathematics: Nathaniel Bowditch emerged as a leader with an international reputation; American scientific journals began publishing mathematical papers; and American mathematicians began to turn away from the British-dominated mathematical philosophy of their past and to turn towards the modern mathematical approach as represented by the French textbook authors. Each of these factors contributed to a work-in-progress as American mathematicians struggled to build a foundation upon which a research community would form. This book traces the development of that that foundation.

Author Biography

Todd Timmons received his PhD in the History of Science from the University of Oklahoma. He is currently professor of history at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith, where he teaches courses in the history of science, mathematics, and technology. His previous books include Makers of Science: The Works and Words of 24 Visionaries from Copernicus to Watson and Crick and Science and Technology in 19th Century America.