Mathematical motivators: using the history of mathematics to enrich the curriculum

This article provides a summary of the MSOR funded mini project Mathematical Motivators. Mathematics is usually, and of course correctly, presented ‘ready-made’ to students, with techniques and applications presented systematically and in a logical order. However, like any other academic subject, mathematics has a history which is rich in astonishing breakthroughs, false starts, misattributions, confusions and dead-ends. This history gives a narrative and human context which adds colour and context to the discipline