Lucjan Emil B\"ottcher (1872-1937)-- the Polish pioneer of holomorphic dynamics

TL;DR

This paper highlights Lucjan Emil Böttcher's pioneering role in holomorphic dynamics, emphasizing his contributions despite initial flaws, and contextualizing his work within the development of the field.

Contribution

It presents a detailed historical analysis of Böttcher's life and work, positioning him as a foundational figure in holomorphic dynamics.

Findings

Böttcher studied under Sophus Lie in Leipzig.

He faced academic hindrances in Lwów.

His mathematical work laid groundwork for holomorphic dynamics.

Abstract

This paper, based in part on joint work with Stanis{\l}aw Domoradzki, concerns Lucjan Emil B\"ottcher (1872-1937)-- a little-known Polish mathematician active in Lw\'ow. I outline B\"ottcher's scholarly path, focusing on his studies in Leipzig with Sophus Lie, his later academic career in Lw\'ow and the hindrances he faced in its advancement. I also describe very briefly his mathematical achievements. In view of later developments in holomorphic dynamics, I argue that, despite flaws in his work, B\"ottcher should be regarded not only as a contributor to the area but in fact as one of its founders.