History of Hindu Mathematics: A Source Book v1.c7.s16.6

v1.c7.s16.6

As early as 711 A.D., the power of the Goths was shattered at the battle of Jarez de le Frontera, and immediately afterwards the Moors became masters of Spain, and remained so for five hundred years. The knowledge of the modern system of notation which was definitely introduced at Baghdad about the middle of the eighth century must have travelled to Spain and from there made its way into Europe. The schools established by the Moors at Cordova, Granada, and Toledo were famous seats of learning throughout the middle ages, and attracted students from all parts of Europe. Thus although Europe may not be directly indebted to the Moors for its numerical symbols, it certainly is for that important principle which made the ordinary *ghobâr* forms superior to the Roman numerals.