On the origin of Special Relativity
arXiv:physics/0512101
Abstract
Retrospectively, in 1905, Special Relativity seemed palpably close; it was "in the air". But apparently it needed the fresh approach of an unprejudiced newcomer, Einstein, to take the final step. I report, in a pedagogical fashion, on the scientific background that triggered the formulation of Special Relativity and also on the role of Lorentz and Poincare.
35 pages, 4 figures. Text in german. Contribution to the 2005-annus-mirabilis celebration at the Alte Kantonsschule Aarau