If you studied mathematics in high school, you’re likely familiar with Pythagoras and his famous theorem. However, it turns out that this theorem may not have originated with the Greek mathematician, as an ancient tablet predating him by 1000 years contains the same equation.
Pythagoras, who is believed to have lived from 570 to 490 BCE, is renowned for his expertise in mathematics, astronomy, and music. Despite his genius, recent archaeological findings suggest that he was not the first to discover the theorem bearing his name.
Archaeologists have uncovered the equation a^2 + b^2 = c^2, commonly associated with Pythagoras, on a Babylonian tablet known as IM 67118, dating back to 1770 BCE. This tablet may have been used for educational purposes, providing a solution for finding the length of a diagonal within a rectangle. Another tablet from 1800–1600 BCE even displays a square with labeled triangles.
Upon translating these ancient texts, experts have concluded that advanced mathematics was well-known in Babylonian civilization long before Pythagoras’ time. Mathematician Bruce Ratner stated, “The conclusion is inescapable. The Babylonians knew the relation between the length of the diagonal of a square and its side.”
So, how did Pythagoras become so closely associated with this mathematical discovery? The answer lies in the fact that Pythagoras established a school, the Semicircle of Pythagoras, where he taught various subjects, including mathematics. Since the knowledge was primarily transmitted orally within the group, it became wrongly attributed to Pythagoras. Over time, this association persisted, leading to the misconception that the theorem was his creation.
In reality, it was the collective work of the Pythagoreans, but out of respect for their leader, many of their discoveries were credited to Pythagoras himself, hence the term ‘Pythagoras’ Theorem.’
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