Louisiana students Ne’Kiya Jackson and Calcea Johnson caught the attention of their teachers in 2022 with their innovative approach to proving the Pythagorean theorem. Their efforts led them to present at the American Mathematical Society’s Southeastern Sectional conference in Atlanta, making them the youngest individuals to do so and gaining them national media attention, including a feature on “60 Minutes.” They have now cemented their place in mathematical history by publishing an academic paper in the American Mathematical Monthly, outlining their original proof of the theorem and nine additional proofs. Their work has been praised for its use of trigonometry, rather than algebra or geometry, in proving the familiar theorem.
Pythagoras, the ancient Greek philosopher and mathematician, is credited with the development of the Pythagorean theorem 2,500 years ago. While it is a fundamental principle in mathematics, Jackson and Johnson’s approach using trigonometry is considered particularly challenging due to the close relationship between trigonometry and Pythagoras’ theorem. Their proofs stand out because they do not rely on assumptions based on the Pythagorean theorem, avoiding the common pitfall of circular reasoning. Tom Murdoch, a prominent mathematician, commended their work for breaking new ground in an area where many believed innovation was impossible.
The study by Jackson and Johnson presents five novel ways of proving the theorem using trigonometry, adding to the existing body of knowledge in the field. By introducing ten different proofs, including the one they presented at the conference, the pair has demonstrated a fresh perspective on a classic mathematical concept. Their ability to approach the problem with minimal preconceived notions allowed them to think outside the box and develop new solutions. Their journey to publication included navigating peer review, a standard process in academic publishing where experts evaluate the work for quality and accuracy.
In addition to their academic achievements, Johnson expressed pride in being a positive role model for young women and women of color in the male-dominated field of mathematics. By showcasing their accomplishments, they hope to inspire other young women to pursue their passions and break barriers in traditionally underrepresented fields. Their groundbreaking work serves as a testament to the power of determination and creativity in the pursuit of knowledge and innovation. Jackson and Johnson’s success story highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in academia, where different perspectives can lead to groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in the field of mathematics.
As the youngest presenters at a prestigious mathematical conference and now published authors in a renowned scientific journal, Jackson and Johnson have proven that age and background are not barriers to making meaningful contributions to the field of mathematics. Their ability to challenge conventional thinking and bring a fresh perspective to a centuries-old theorem sets them apart as rising stars in the mathematical community. With their groundbreaking work, they have opened doors for future generations of mathematicians, showing that passion, dedication, and a willingness to think outside the box can lead to extraordinary achievements in the world of academia.
