MATHEMATICS EDUCATION IN LATE 16TH-CENTURY ANTWERP

In this paper I present a picture of the social status of the Antwerp arithmetic teachers. This requires first a closer look at the Antwerp schoolmaster in general. Because no fewer than two-thirds of them were also reckoning masters most of the conclusions about teachers are als o valid for reckoning masters. The consequences of the sack of Antwerp in 1585 provides us with a wealth of information about the social pos ition of its inhabitants. The material about reckoning teachers is pre sented. Especially important, in this period of religious turmoil and civil war, is the information concerning the religious convictions of reckoning masters. Finally, a closer look is given to the contents of the arithmetic books and the introduction of arabic numerals.