This textbook on the history of mathematics grew out of the conviction that not only prospective school teachers of mathematics but also prospective college teachers of mathematics need a background in history to more effectively teach the subject to their students. It is therefore designed for mathematics majors who intended to teach in college or high school and thus concentrates on the history of those topics typically covered in an undergraduate curriculum or in elementary or high school. There is an emphasis throughout the book on the important textbooks of various periods. Two chapters are devoted entirely to mathematical methods; that is, to the ways in which mathematics was used to solve problems in other areas of endeavor. A special effort has been made to consider mathematics developed in parts of the world other than Europe. Each chapter begins with a relevant quotation and a description of an important mathematical ‘event’. The chapters contain many exercises, collected by topic for easy access. For easy reference, many biographies of the mathematicians whose work is discussed appear in separate boxes. (ZDM/Mathdi)