Their techniques would transform the foundations of mathematics and lay the groundwork for "infinitesimal calculus."  Today we name the broader mathematical field as "analysis."

Few have coped with a more tragic life.  At the age of six his father was murdered.  At the age of twelve Brescia was ravaged by French troops.  Niccolo suffered horrible facial wounds that cut both his face and jaw.  In fact, he was left for dead and almost accidently survived.  His name became "tartaglia" which means  "stutterer."  As an adult he always wore a beard to cover his disfigured face.

His primary competitor was Cardan, author of the Ars Magna and recognized as the world's leading mathematician at that time.  Be sure to read more of their legendary contests.