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The first epoch-making algebra to appear in print was the Ars Magna of Cardan (1545). This was devoted primarily to the solution of algebraic equations. It contained the solution of the cubic and biquadratic equations, made use of complex numbers, and in general may be said to have been the first step toward modern algebra.

— David Eugene Smith History of Mathematics (1925)

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More quotes by David Eugene Smith

He used capital vowels for the unknown quantities and capital consonants for the known, thus being able to express several unknowns and several knowns.

History of Mathematics (1925)

With the coming of the Jesuits in the 16th century, and the consequent introduction of Western science, China lost interest in her native algebra...

History of Mathematics (1925)

He... gave thirteen forms of the cubic which have positive roots, these having already been given by Omar Kayyam.

History of Mathematics (1925)

He states that the root of x^3 + 6x = 20 isx = \sqrt[3]{\sqrt{108} + 10} - \sqrt[3]{\sqrt{108} - 10}.

History of Mathematics (1925)

The excellent work of Tropfke is an example of the tendency to break away from the mere chronological recital of facts.

History of Mathematics (1923)

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Quote text and notes from Wikiquote: David Eugene Smith (page history), available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Source quality and labels are our own summary of what Wikiquote records.