Class field theory brings together the quadratic and higher reciprocity laws of Gauss, Legendre, and others, and vastly generalizes them. This book provides an accessible introduction to class field theory. It takes a traditional approach in that it attempts to present the material using the original techniques of proof, but in a fashion which is cleaner and more streamlined than most other books on this topic. It could be used for a graduate course on algebraic number theory, as well as for students who are interested in self-study. The book has been class-tested, and the author has included lots of challenging exercises throughout the text.

Includes bibliographical references and index.