Number Systems Throughout History - Elementary Mathematics Explained

Explore the fascinating evolution of number systems across ancient civilizations in this informative 31-minute video. Delve into the counting methods developed by Babylonians, Egyptians, Indus Valley cultures, Chinese, Greeks, and Romans. Learn how primitive counting techniques using strokes, twigs, or pebbles were refined into more sophisticated systems based on larger units or denominations, often utilizing base 5 or base 10 foundations. Discover the pros and cons of primitive arithmetic, understand how addition and multiplication worked in early systems, and examine the unique features of Roman numerals, Egyptian hieroglyphics, and Chinese numerals. Gain insights into early Greek numbering from 1000 BC and identify common elements shared by these diverse systems. Use this comprehensive overview as a stepping stone to better understand the development of our current Hindu-Arabic number system.