Edited by
I.M. James, Oxford University, Mathematical Institute, Oxford, UK
Description
Topology, for many years, has been one of the most exciting and influential fields of research in modern mathematics. Although its origins
may be traced back several hundred years, it was Poincaré who "gave topology wings" in a classic series of articles published
around the turn of the century. While the earlier history, sometimes called the prehistory, is also considered, this volume is mainly
concerned with the more recent history of topology, from Poincaré onwards.
As will be seen from the list of contents the articles
cover a wide range of topics. Some are more technical than others, but the reader without a great deal of technical knowledge should
still find most of the articles accessible. Some are written by professional historians of mathematics, others by historically-minded
mathematicians, who tend to have a different viewpoint.
