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Why was Mary Jackson’s application to the engineering program rejected? This question has intrigued many, as it highlights the systemic barriers faced by African American women in the field of engineering during the mid-20th century. Mary Jackson, an African American mathematician and engineer, was a pivotal figure in the history of NASA, yet her journey to becoming an engineer was fraught with obstacles and discrimination. This article delves into the reasons behind the rejection of her application and the impact it had on her life and career.