ASD Libraries: G06: SS Mesopotamia: Mathematics

Mathematics

Babylonian arithmetic
Unlike the Egyptians, the Babylonians of ancient Mesopotamia developed flexible techniques for dealing with fractions. They also succeeded in developing a more sophisticated base-10 arithmetic that was positional, and they kept mathematical records on clay tablets. The most remarkable feature of Babylonian arithmetic was its use of a sexagesimal (base 60) place-valued system in addition to a decimal system. Thus the Babylonians counted in groups of sixty as well as ten. Babylonian mathematics is still used to tell time—an hour consists of 60 minutes, and each minute is divided into 60 seconds—and circles are measured in divisions of 360 degrees.

Maths Books

Ibn Al-Haytham by Bradley Steffens
Call Number: B-AL-HAYTHAM

ISBN: 9781599350240

Publication Date: 2007-01-01

An introduction to the life of Ibn al-Haytham, a pioneer in several scientific and mathematical fields who lived from approximately 950 to 1040, describing his groundbreaking work and lasting influence on modern science and mathematics.
The Math Book by DK
Call Number: 510 MAT

ISBN: 9781465480248

Publication Date: 2019-09-03

Learn about the most important mathematical ideas, theorems, and movements in The Math Book.
Pythagoras by Alicia Klepeis
Call Number: B Pythagoras

ISBN: 9781680200324

Publication Date: 2017

Mathematician. Philosopher. World traveler. Pythagoras was an intelligent and curious scholar and teacher.
The Technology of the Mesopotamians by Naomi V. McCullough
Call Number: 935 MCC

ISBN: 9781502622372

Publication Date: 2016-12-30

Over the course of millennia, the many civilizations making up Mesopotamia created interesting and inspiring technologies. From the first analog computers to jewelry, the Mesopotamians were skilled workers and inventors. This book dives into the history of each Mesopotamian civilization and discusses which technologies continue to inspire societies today.
Mesopotamia and the Fertile Crescent by John Malam
Call Number: 935 MAL

ISBN: 9780817254346

Publication Date: 1999

Describes ancient Mesopotamia, now located in present-day Iraq, and traces its history, technological innovations, people, and culture from 10,000 to 539 B.C.
The Art of More by Michael Brooks
Call Number: 510 BRO

ISBN: 9781524748999

Publication Date: 2022

An illuminating, millennia-spanning history of the impact mathematics has had on the world, and the fascinating people who have mastered its inherent power
Absolutely Everything! by Christopher Lloyd
Call Number: 909 LLO

ISBN: 9781999802837

Publication Date: 2018

Discover how history, nature, and science connect in this fast-paced, entertaining, and incredibly informative history of the world, from the beginning of time to the present day.
Ancient Mesopotamian Culture by Barbara Krasner
Call Number: 935 KRA

ISBN: 9781477789032

Publication Date: 2016-07-30

The ancient Mesopotamians have been a subject of fascination through the ages. This title will guide the eager reader through the cultural lives of the Mesopotamians. Readers will also get an overview of what their own education would have been like in Mesopotamian times. Ample color photographs provide context for the lives of these ancient peoples. Lively text teaches readers about the innovations in astronomy, mathematics, and literature, as well as music, dance, and more. This book will show readers how in some ways their own modern society might not be all that far removed from one so many centuries ago.