Book 1: Chapter 3, Pythagoras Summary and Analysis

Pythagoras is most important as the initiator of argument in mathematics, although he also engaged in mysticism while deeply influencing philosophy. He was born on the Samos island ruled by Polycrates, and was successful in 532 BC. His father was to be Mnesarchos although others claim it was the god Apollo. Samos traded extensively, reaching the Spanish Tartessus. Polycrates allied initially with Amasis, King of Egypt but turned against him when King of Persia decided to attack Egypt, and was murdered by Persians. He supported the arts and public works. As Pythagoras disagreed with his government, he left, visited Egypt, and lived in Croton, Southern Italy, a prosperous city of 300,000 that was famous for medicine and import of Ionian wares. It fought other cities, such as Locri and Sybaris that traded with Miletus.

Pythagoras established a society of...