The History of Number
Travel from early counting marks to place value, zero, different bases, algebra and the mathematics still being created today. Click a point on the timeline to open the story, see an example, and connect it to number structure.
Counting
Symbols
Place value
Zero
Bases
Base π₯
Still continuing
Click a point to explore the story.
Tip: drag sideways or use a trackpad to move along the timeline. The final point does not close the story β it opens it.
1. Count Marks, fingers and objects record βhow manyβ.
2. Group Cultures create symbols to avoid endless marks.
3. Position Place value means position changes value.
4. Generalise Number structure becomes algebra: 1, π₯, π₯Β², π₯Β³.
5. Continue Mathematics is still being made β by people asking new questions.
β
The timeline does not end.
Every new representation, question, proof, diagram, tool and explanation becomes part of the history of mathematics. You are not just learning maths β you are joining a story that is still being written.