Fantappi\`e's final relativity and Lie algebra deformations

TL;DR

This paper examines Fantappi extbackslash e's work on the rigidity of the Lie algebra al(4,1), analyzing its significance and historical context within the development of Lie algebra theory.

Contribution

It provides a detailed discussion of Fantappi extbackslash e's proof of the rigidity of al(4,1) and explores its implications in the history of mathematics.

Findings

The proof confirms the rigidity of al(4,1).

It highlights a potential missed opportunity in Italian mathematical history.

The discussion contextualizes the proof within Lie algebra deformation theory.

Abstract

The purpose of this note is to discuss a few lines appearing in the work of late Fantappi\`e. They concern the proof of rigidity of a specific real semisimple Lie algebra: ${\mathfrak O}(4,1)$. Our intention is to discuss to what extent such proof constitutes a missed opportunity in history of post-war Italian mathematics.