Supplementary mathematics/History of mathematics

The history of mathematics deals with the origin of discoveries in mathematics as well as mathematical methods and notation of the past. Written evidence of new developments in mathematics prior to the modern era and subsequent spread of knowledge around the world have been identified in only a few places. From about 3000–5000 BC, the Mesopotamian states of Sumer, Akkad, and Assyria, followed by ancient Egypt and the Syrian states of Abla and Elam began to use arithmetic, algebra and geometry for the purposes of taxation and trade. They were also used in architecture, drawing, and engraving, as well as in patterns found in nature, such as astronomy, time recording, and calendar editing.