In this chapter we give perspective

In this chapter we give perspective to your study of differential equations in several
different ways. First,we use two problems to illustrate some of the basic ideas that we
will return to, and elaborate upon, frequently throughout the remainder of the book.
Later, to provide organizational structure for the book, we indicate several ways
of classifying differential equations. Finally, we outline some of the major trends
in the historical development of the subject and mention a few of the outstanding
mathematicians who have contributed to it. The study of differential equations has
attracted the attention of many of the world’s greatest mathematicians during the
past three centuries. Nevertheless, it remains a dynamic field of inquiry today, with
many interesting open questions.