Born at Hannover in Germany, Lindemann is principally known for solving one particular mathematical problem, namely the question of whether or not the number π is transcendental. In his paper Über die Zahl π (1882; On the Number π) he showed that it is and thus disposed of the ancient problem of squaring the circle, i.e., whether it is possible using only straight edge and compasses to construct a square equal in area to a given circle. Lindemann's result established its impossibility. Lindemann held posts as professor of mathematics at both the universities of Königsberg and Munich. His other mathematical work was chiefly in analysis and geometry.