Muhammad ibn Musa al-Khwarizmi

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

Al-Khwarizmi (c. 780-850 CE) revolutionized mathematics through his seminal work Kitab al-Jabr, which:

• Systematized algebraic equations
• Introduced decimal positional numbering
• Pioneered algorithmic problem-solving

His innovations enabled:

• Development of modern algebraic notation
• Advancements in trigonometric calculations
• Precision in astronomical modeling

The term 'algorithm' derives from his Latinized name, while 'algebra' comes from 'al-jabr' in his book title. As director of Baghdad's House of Wisdom, he synthesized Greek, Indian, and Persian mathematical knowledge into systematic disciplines that enabled Europe's scientific renaissance.