Recollections from the Early Days of Chaos Theory

This book traces how key figures came to study chaos theory during the 1970s and 1980s, offering a collection of personal accounts that reveal the lesser-known stories behind a scientific revolution. Contributors were invited to share how they first encountered chaos, who introduced them to it, and what drew them to this then-unconventional field. They were encouraged to reference the works that shaped their journeys, providing insight into the often-surprising paths that led to major discoveries.With no strict stylistic constraints, each chapter reflects the individuality of the scientists, while also revealing common threads and influences that shaped the development of chaos theory. Together, these recollections offer a rare glimpse into the scientific atmosphere of the time -- an era marked by curiosity, collaboration, and the rise of personal computing.Many pivotal contributions are discussed, and the book includes rare archival materials such as photos and letters. Highlights include a 1958 group photo from Hayashi’s lab in Japan, and the first English translation of a significant Russian paper by Stepan Pulkin, whose daughter, a mathematician, contributed both the translation and personal insights.This book is both a historical document and a tribute to the people behind the equations -- a unique opportunity to witness the birth of chaos theory through the eyes of those who lived it.