The oldest known examples of mathematical texts come from Mesopotamia and Egypt.
Earliest Mathematical Texts
The following table outlines some of the earliest known mathematical texts, based on available evidence:
| Text | Origin | Approximate Date |
|---|---|---|
| Plimpton 322 | Babylonian | c. 2000 – 1900 BC |
| Rhind Mathematical Papyrus | Egyptian | c. 1800 BC |
| Moscow Mathematical Papyrus | Egyptian | c. 1890 BC |
These texts demonstrate that sophisticated mathematical thought and practice existed in these ancient civilizations. Therefore, while pinpointing the absolute oldest instance of "math" is difficult, these examples are among the earliest documented evidence we possess.
