How Dennis realized he had `invented' $L_\infty$-algebras a.k.a. strongly homotopy Lie algebras

TL;DR

This paper explores the historical discovery of $L_ abla$-algebras, also known as strongly homotopy Lie algebras, highlighting Dennis's early realization before formal definitions were established.

Contribution

It provides a personal historical account of the independent discovery of $L_ abla$-algebras, emphasizing the timeline and conceptual insights involved.

Findings

Dennis realized the concept before formal definitions

The paper offers a historical perspective on the development of $L_ abla$-algebras

Highlights the importance of intuition in mathematical discovery

Abstract

This is my attempt to rediscover how Dennis realized that he had discovered/invented $L_\infty$-algebras a.k.a. strongly homotopy Lie algebras before my colleagues and I defined them.