Formation of mathematical education and science at the Belarusian State University (1919–1920s)

In: Žurnal Belorusskogo Gosudarstvennogo Universiteta: Časopis Belaruskaha Dzjaržaŭnaha Ŭniversitėta = Journal of the Belarusian State University. Istorija = Historyja = History, Heft 3, S. 19-32

Abstract

On the basis of archival materials and other sources, the complex process of formation at the Belarusian State University of mathematical education and scientific research in various fields of science is considered. Particular attention is paid to the years that did not stop in 1919–1921 discussions among officials and scientists about the legality of creating a separate mathematics faculty specifically for the opening of the Belarusian State University. In this case, for the first time, the position of an outstanding mathematician and organiser of mathematical education, a native of Belarus, I. R. Braitsev, is presented in detail. The author defines the 1920s as an undoubtedly significant stage not only in the formation of the mathematical component in the general character of Belarusian State University, but also in the formation of the foundations of the future high level of university mathematics.