This time-honored study by one of the 20th century's foremost scholars and interpreters of the history and meaning of mathematics surveys the role of mathematics in civilization. It describes clearly the main principles, methods, and theories of mathematics that have survived from 4000 B.C. to 1945. 1945 edition.
Here's a sample of other books in this Dover category
History of Mathematics, Vol. 1 by David E. Smith Volume 1 of a 2-volume history — from Egyptian papyri and medieval maps to modern graphs and diagrams. Non-technical chronological survey with thousands of biographical notes, critical evaluations, contemporary opinions on over 1,100 mathematicians.
History of Mathematics, Vol. 2 by David E. Smith Volume 2 of a 2-volume history — from Egyptian papyri and medieval maps to modern graphs and diagrams. Evolution of arithmetic, geometry, trigonometry, calculating devices, algebra, calculus, more. Problems, recreations, applications.
The Historical Roots of Elementary Mathematics by Lucas N. H. Bunt, Phillip S. Jones, Jack D. Bedient Exciting, hands-on approach to understanding fundamental underpinnings of modern arithmetic, algebra, geometry and number systems examines their origins in early Egyptian, Babylonian, and Greek sources.
A Philosophical Essay on Probabilities by Marquis de Laplace Without the use of higher mathematics, this classic demonstrates the application of probability to games of chance, physics, reliability of witnesses, astronomy, insurance, democratic government, and many other areas.
Of Men and Numbers: The Story of the Great Mathematicians by Jane Muir Fascinating accounts of the lives and accomplishments of history's greatest mathematical minds, plus charming anecdotes about Descartes, Euler, Pascal, and many others. 30 diagrams.
Concepts of Modern Mathematics by Ian Stewart In this charming volume, a noted English mathematician uses humor and anecdote to illuminate the concepts of groups, sets, subsets, topology, Boolean algebra, and other mathematical subjects. 200 illustrations.
