Muhammad ibn Musa al-Khwarizmi

Persian mathematician who founded algebra and introduced Hindu-Arabic numerals to the West

Muhammad ibn Musa al-Khwarizmi (c. 780–850 CE), the Persian polymath, revolutionized mathematics through his groundbreaking work Kitab al-Jabr wa-l-Muqabala. This seminal text not only established algebra as an independent discipline but also systematically demonstrated how to solve polynomial equations. His name gave rise to the term 'algorithm' - foundational to modern computer science.

Al-Khwarizmi's decimal positional number system replaced cumbersome Roman numerals in Europe through 12th-century Latin translations. His trigonometric tables containing sine and cosine functions enabled unprecedented astronomical calculations. As director of Baghdad's House of Wisdom, he synthesized Greek, Indian and Babylonian knowledge into new systematic methodologies still used in scientific research frameworks.

The mathematician's geographic works corrected Ptolemy's errors in mapping coordinates while introducing innovative cartographic techniques. His calendar calculations established precise solar and lunar cycles that influenced Islamic timekeeping systems for centuries. Al-Khwarizmi's interdisciplinary approach transformed multiple fields through methodical problem-solving frameworks that remain central to STEM education worldwide.