A history of mathematical statistics from 1750 to 1930

Hald carefully traces the history of parametric statistical inference, the development of the corresponding mathematical methods, and some typical applications. Not surprisingly, the ideas, concepts, methods, and results of Laplace, Gauss, and Fisher dominate his account. In particular, Hald analyzes the work and interactions of Laplace and Gauss and describes their contributions to modern theory.

Hald also offers a great deal of new material on the history of the period and enhances our understanding of both the controversies and continuities that developed between the different schools. Statisticians, probabilists, actuaries, mathematicians, historians of science, and advanced students will find absorbing reading in the author's insightful description of important problems and how they gradually moved toward solution.