The golden age of immersion theory in topology: 1959–1973. A mathematical survey from a historical perspective

Spring, David

doi:10.1090/S0273-0979-05-01048-7

The golden age of immersion theory in topology: 1959–1973. A mathematical survey from a historical perspective
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Bull. Amer. Math. Soc. 42 (2005), 163-180 Request permission

Abstract:

We review the history of modern immersion-theoretic topology during the period 1959–1973, beginning with the work of S. Smale followed by the important contributions from the Leningrad school of topology, including the work of M. Gromov. We discuss the development of the major geometrical ideas in immersion-theoretic topology during this period. Historical remarks are included and technical concepts are introduced informally.

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