Redefining the Impossible: How Jackson and Johnson Revolutionized the Pythagorean Proof

Achieving the "Impossible"

In a field where centuries-old theorems rarely see groundbreaking changes, Ne’Kiya Jackson and Calcea Johnson's approach to the Pythagorean theorem has astonished mathematicians and educators alike.

This is not simply because they are two young African American scholars from Louisiana, American South, but because their work tackles what experts thought impossible: proving the theorem through trigonometry without circular logic. This feat is particularly challenging since trigonometric concepts are themselves based on the principles within the Pythagorean theorem.

The young scientists/mathematicians developed multiple new proofs, each avoiding the assumption of Pythagoras' theorem—a skillful and innovative approach that exemplifies genuine mathematical ingenuity. Jackson and Johnson’s work, published in the venerable American Mathematical Monthly, not only introduces a fresh perspective but also challenges long-held limitations in mathematical proof-making.

Their journey, from a high school math contest to a presentation at the American Mathematical Society, underscores their dedication and the significant potential for future breakthroughs at the hands of innovative young thinkers.

Who Are Ne'Kiya Jackson and Calcea Johnson?

Both Ne'Kiya Jackson and Calcea Johnson are African American ladies.

Ne'Kiya Jackson

Ne'Kiya Jackson is a pharmacy student at Xavier University of Louisiana. She combines her love for science with a creative edge. Known for her academic rigor, Jackson is also an emerging mathematician whose groundbreaking work redefined the Pythagorean theorem.

Calcea Johnson

Valedictorian of St. Mary’s Academy's class of 2023, Calcea Johnson, is now a second-year student in Environmental Engineering at Louisiana State University. Known for her academic excellence, Johnson has earned the Black Scholar Award and works in research labs.

Here is the article citation:

Jackson, N., & Johnson, C. (2024). Five or Ten New Proofs of the Pythagorean Theorem. The American Mathematical Monthly, 131(9), 739–752. https://doi.org/10.1080/00029890.2024.2370240