C. F. Gauss and the beginnings of invariant theory (Q998113)

This three-page article discusses the beginnings of invariant theory. It is argued that invariant theory provides a direct link between the work of Gauss and Einstein's general relativity. The author describes how the theory of forms was first established as an independent discipline by Gauss and later advanced by Riemann and other early differential geometers. It is also claimed that the emphasis on invariants in the early 20th century served as an important source of inspiration for Einstein's general relativity.