Which mathematician's work laid the groundwork for modern algebra?

The work of Muhammad ibn Musa al-Khwarizmi is significant in the development of modern algebra, primarily due to his influential texts in the 9th century, which systematically presented the solution of linear and quadratic equations. Al-Khwarizmi is often referred to as the "father of algebra," as his work introduced methods that combined both Hindu and Greek mathematical concepts, providing a structured approach to calculating and solving equations.

His seminal book, "Al-Kitab al-Mukhtasar fi Hisab al-Jabr wal-Muqabala," is where the term "algebra" itself is derived from the word "al-jabr." This work laid a foundational framework for the discipline, establishing not only procedures for solving equations but also the importance of logical deduction in mathematical operations. As a result, algebra evolved into a central branch of mathematics, influencing future generations and the development of more complex mathematical theories.

In contrast to al-Khwarizmi's pivotal contributions, other mathematicians mentioned, such as Euclid, focused more on geometry and foundational principles in mathematics, while Carl Friedrich Gauss made significant strides in number theory and other fields long after the groundwork of algebra was already established. Blaise Pascal's contributions were primarily in probability and