Jean Robert Argand invented a method of geometrically representing complex numbers and their operations. The Argand diagramis a graphic representation of complex numbers as points on a plane and their additions. He is also credited with giving proof, although with a few gaps, of the fundamental theorem of algebra. In 1814, Argand published a proof of the fundamental theorem of algebra, which may be the simplest of all proofs of this theorem.

Argand was born in Geneva, Switzerland, on July 18, 1768, to Jacques Argand and Eves Canac. Historians have limited knowledge of Argand's background and nothing is known of his education. Apparently, he was a self-taught mathematician, belonging to no mathematical societies or organizations. Mathematics appeared to be just a hobby to Argand. He has often been confused with Aime Argand, the physicist and chemist who had invented the Argand lamp, however, they are not related.

In 1806, Argand, his wife...