The origin of elementary algebra dates back about four thousand years. It is thought to be the very first type of mathematics practiced by ancient civilizations. However, algebra was studied vigorously by Arabic-speaking scholars during the 9th century, and the Greeks also developed their version known as algebraic.
The word algebra comes from the Arabic word al-jebr and was taken by European language speakers directly from translations of Arabic writings. The original meaning of al-jebr relates to the straightening of bones, but nowadays it's taken as the reducing or simplification of something. This conforms to the current use of algebra, which is to simplify and reduce a long mathematical equation.
The next major stage in the development of elementary algebra was in the 12th century, when Western European scholars began to study the Arabic writings. Knowledge of mathematics increased over the coming centuries with many Greek, French and Italian mathematicians studying the subject in detail and refining mathematical equations using algebra.
Despite major advancements in teaching techniques, elementary algebra remains an important part of the overall mathematics syllabus. It is taught as an introduction to the more detailed elements of algebra to students around the world. Advanced algebra is taught in three phases: rhetorical algebra, syncopated algebra and symbolic algebra.