This text for undergraduates presents an introduction to the fundamental ideas of algebraic numbers using the proof of Fermat's Last Theorem a 300-year-old conjecture that had until recently eluded mathematicians as the main example. The volume discusses all of the elements necessary for understanding the proof, including Euclidean imaginary fields and Minkowski's theorem on convex sets relative to a lattice. Stewart and Tall (both mathematics, U. of Warwick, UK) conclude with a survey of new developments and unsolved problems relating to the Theorem. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
First published in 1979 and written by two distinguished mathematicians with a special gift for exposition, this book is now available in a completely revised third edition. It reflects the exciting developments in number theory during the past two decades that culminated in the proof of Fermat's Last Theorem. Intended as a upper level textbook, it is also eminently suited as a text for self-study.
