• Journal for History of Mathematics
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• v.29 no.3
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• pp.157-172
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• 2016

Sophus Lie's research is regarded as one of the most important mathematical advancements in the $19^{th}$ century. His pioneering research in the field of differential equations resulted in an invaluable consolidation of calculus and group theory. Lie's group theory has been investigated and constantly modified by various mathematicians which resulted in a beautifully abstract yet concrete theory. However Lie's early intentions and ideas are lost in the mists of modern transfiguration. In this paper we explore Lie's early academic years and his object of studies which clarify the ground breaking ideas behind his theory.