This revised and greatly expanded second edition of the Russian text
contains a wealth of new information about the lives and accomplishments
of more than a dozen scientists throughout five centuries of history:
from the first steps in algebra up to new achievements in geometry in
connection with physics. The heroes of the book are renowned figures
from early eras, as well some scientists of last century. A unique
mixture of mathematics, physics, and history, this volume provides
biographical glimpses of scientists and their contributions in the
context of the social and political background of their times.