What is the history of the algorithm?

Answer 1

The concept of an algorithm originated as a means of recording procedures for solving mathematical problems such as finding the common divisor of two numbers or multiplying two numbers. Al-Khwārizmī, Persian astronomer and mathematician, wrote a treatise in Arabic in 825 AD, On Calculation with Hindu Numerals. It was translated into Latin in the 12th century as "Algoritmi de numero Indorum", which title was likely intended to mean "Algoritmus on the numbers of the Indians", where "Algoritmi" was the translator's rendition of the author's name in the genitive case; but people misunderstanding the title treated Algoritmi as a Latin plural and this led to the word "algorithm" coming to mean "calculation method". The intrusive "th" is most likely due to a false cognate with the Greek "αριθμος" (arithmos) meaning "number".