During the Middle Ages, Europe experienced a period of slower scientific progress. However, mathematics continued to grow and develop in the Islamic world during what is often called the Islamic Golden Age. Scholars translated important Greek mathematical texts and expanded upon them with new discoveries.
One of the most important contributions of this period was the development of algebra. The word "algebra" comes from the Arabic term "al-jabr." Mathematicians such as Al-Khwarizmi wrote influential books that introduced systematic methods for solving equations.
Another major contribution was the spread of the Hindu-Arabic numeral system. This system replaced Roman numerals in Europe because it made calculations much easier and more efficient. The introduction of zero was especially important for the development of mathematics.
Later, this knowledge returned to Europe through trade and cultural exchanges, helping to start the Renaissance and paving the way for modern mathematics.