Robert Recorde was a Welsh mathematician and physician who lived during the 16th century (circa 1512–1558). He is best known for introducing the equals sign "=" in mathematics. Recorde used the symbol to denote equality because he believed there was no simpler way to express the concept than to use two parallel lines, which he described as being "the same distance apart." He made significant contributions to mathematics and education, authoring several books aimed at teaching various mathematical concepts.
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