Essential Algebraic Number Theory

This book provides a clear and accessible introduction to modern algebraic number theory, with a special emphasis on class field theory. Drawing from courses and lectures delivered in seven countries, the text balances simplicity with depth, making advanced topics approachable with minimal reliance on heavy algebraic or analytic machinery.The book is structured into these distinct chapters; each tailored to a different stage of mathematical training: The final chapter gathers a substantial collection of exercises, designed to test comprehension and guide further exploration. By offering the simplest known pathway to class field theory, this book fills a significant gap left by classic references published decades ago.