A Brief Introduction to Ancient Counting Systems For The Non-Mathematician

This concise guide offers an accessible entry point into the diverse world of ancient counting systems, from Egyptian hieroglyphs to Mayan vigesimal math. Authored by an experienced artifact historian, it bypasses complex calculations to focus on a practical, foundational skill: learning to read and understand numerals across seven major historical cultures. The book demystifies the symbols and logic of Babylonian, Greek, and Chinese systems, making numerical archaeology approachable for anyone.

What sets this primer apart is its commitment to the complete beginner, stripping away the intimidation factor often associated with historical mathematics. Readers with an interest in ancient civilizations, anthropology, or the history of communication will find its direct, artifact-focused approach particularly rewarding. By the final page, you'll not only grasp the basics of Inuit tallying but also gain a new lens for understanding how ancient societies quantified their world.