John West (mathematician) facts for kids

Frontpage of Treatises (1838)

John West (1756-1817) was a talented mathematician and priest from Scotland. He is known for his important work in mathematics, even though he lived far away from other scholars for many years.

Early Life and Education

John West was born in 1756 in Logie, a place in Fife, Scotland. He was the fourth child of Samuel West and Margaret Mein. Sadly, his father passed away in 1766 when John was only ten years old.

In 1769, John began studying at the University of Saint Andrews. He received financial help from Dr. Adamson, a church official, which allowed him to attend. Like his brothers, John studied mathematics under a well-known professor named Nicolas Vilant.

Moving to Jamaica

John West worked as an assistant to Professor Vilant, who was often ill. However, John felt there were not many opportunities for him in Scotland. So, in 1784, he decided to move to Jamaica.

That same year, he published two books: Elements of Mathematics and A System of Shorthand. These books showed his early skills in both math and writing.

Life and Work in Jamaica

When John West first arrived in Jamaica, he became a teacher. He taught at the Manning's Free School in Savanna-la-Mar, located in Westmoreland Parish.

In 1790, he was appointed as the rector (a type of church leader) for Saint Thomas in Morant Bay. He lived and worked there until he passed away in 1817.

Even though he was far from other mathematicians, John West never stopped studying math. He continued his research and writing throughout his life in Jamaica.

Legacy and Published Works

Before he died, John West sent a handwritten book called Mathematical Treatises to one of his former students, John Leslie. Leslie later published this important work in 1838. This book helped share West's mathematical ideas with the world.