Who is the author of 'Hidden Figures'?

The author of 'Hidden Figures' is Margot Lee Shetterly.

What are the main themes in 'Hidden Figures'?

The main themes in 'Hidden Figures' include Women Biographies, Biography, History, History of Technology, Political Biographies.

What genre is 'Hidden Figures'?

'Hidden Figures' is categorized as Biography, History.

Who is the author of 'Hidden Figures'?

The author of 'Hidden Figures' is Margot Lee Shetterly.

What is the main focus of the book 'Hidden Figures'?

The main focus of 'Hidden Figures' is to highlight the untold story of African American female mathematicians, particularly Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, who worked at NASA during the Space Race. The book explores their contributions to astrophysics, mathematics, and engineering, as well as the challenges they faced due to racial and gender discrimination. It emphasizes their crucial roles in successful space missions and sheds light on the broader issues of segregation and bias in the workplace.

What significant contributions did the women in 'Hidden Figures' make to NASA?

The women in 'Hidden Figures' made several significant contributions to NASA, particularly in the early years of the United States space program. Notably, they worked as mathematicians, engineers, and computer scientists at a time when such roles were predominantly filled by men. Some of their key contributions include: Calculating trajectories and launch windows: They performed complex calculations required for the trajectories of space missions, including the famed John Glenn orbital flight in 1962, where Katherine Johnson's calculations were crucial. Flight path analysis: Dorothy Vaughan contributed to the development of the first computer software for NASA's early computers, such as the IBM 7090, which allowed for faster data computations for flight simulations. Engineering support and leadership: Mary Jackson broke barriers as one of NASA's first black female engineers and worked on projects that improved aerodynamics and design. Advocacy for civil rights: The women also navigated and challenged the racial and gender biases of the era, helping to pave the way for future generations of women and minorities in STEM fields. Their contributions were critical not only to NASA's successes in the Space Race but also to the broader movement for gender and racial equality in the workplace.

How does 'Hidden Figures' address the themes of race and gender?

'Hidden Figures' by Margot Lee Shetterly addresses the themes of race and gender through the stories of African American women mathematicians who worked at NASA during the Space Race. The book highlights the intersectionality of race and gender, illustrating how these women, such as Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, faced both racial discrimination and gender bias in a predominantly white, male workplace. The narrative showcases their exceptional talents and perseverance in overcoming systemic barriers, emphasizing the importance of their contributions to America's space program despite the societal challenges they faced. Additionally, the book contextualizes their experiences within the broader civil rights movement, reflecting the struggles for equality and recognition. It highlights how their achievements not only advanced their careers but also paved the way for future generations of women and people of color in STEM fields, thus reinforcing the themes of empowerment and resilience.

What impact did the stories of the women in 'Hidden Figures' have on society and history?

The stories of the women in 'Hidden Figures' had a profound impact on society and history by highlighting the critical roles that African American women played in the field of mathematics and aerospace during a time of racial and gender discrimination. Their contributions to NASA during the Space Race not only advanced the United States' space exploration efforts but also challenged prevailing stereotypes about women's capabilities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). By bringing their stories to light, 'Hidden Figures' has inspired greater recognition of diversity and inclusion within STEM fields, encouraged discussions about intersectionality, and motivated future generations of women and minorities to pursue careers in these areas. Furthermore, the narrative has contributed to the larger movement for civil rights and gender equality, illustrating how individuals can effect change despite systemic obstacles.

Hidden Figures Book Summary

Hidden Figures unveils the incredible true story of three brilliant African American women—Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson—who played pivotal roles at NASA during the Space Race. Despite facing racial and gender discrimination, their groundbreaking work in mathematics, computing, and engineering helped launch John Glenn into orbit. As they navigate personal and professional challenges, the book showcases their resilience and unyielding spirit. This captivating narrative not only highlights their contributions but also reflects the broader struggle for equality in America. Discover how these unsung heroines transformed the future of space exploration and inspired generations to come!

By Margot Lee Shetterly

Published: 2016

"Every time we make a mark on the wall, we are redefining the beauty of who we are."

The #1 New York Times bestseller The phenomenal true story of the black female mathematicians at NASA whose calculations helped fuel some of America’s greatest achievements in space. Soon to be a major motion picture starring Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monae, Kirsten Dunst, and Kevin Costner. Before John Glenn orbited the earth, or Neil Armstrong walked on the moon, a group of dedicated female mathematicians known as “human computers” used pencils, slide rules and adding machines to calculate the numbers that would launch rockets, and astronauts, into space. Among these problem-solvers were a group of exceptionally talented African American women, some of the brightest minds of their generation. Originally relegated to teaching math in the South’s segregated public schools, they were called into service during the labor shortages of World War II, when America’s aeronautics industry was in dire need of anyone who had the right stuff. Suddenly, these overlooked math whizzes had a shot at jobs worthy of their skills, and they answered Uncle Sam’s call, moving to Hampton, Virginia and the fascinating, high-energy world of the Langley Memorial Aeronautical Laboratory. Even as Virginia’s Jim Crow laws required them to be segregated from their white counterparts, the women of Langley’s all-black “West Computing” group helped America achieve one of the things it desired most: a decisive victory over the Soviet Union in the Cold War, and complete domination of the heavens. Starting in World War II and moving through to the Cold War, the Civil Rights Movement and the Space Race, Hidden Figures follows the interwoven accounts of Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson and Christine Darden, four African American women who participated in some of NASA’s greatest successes. It chronicles their careers over nearly three decades they faced challenges, forged alliances and used their intellect to change their own lives, and their country’s future.

Margot Lee Shetterly is an acclaimed author and researcher best known for her groundbreaking book, "Hidden Figures," which details the untold story of African American women mathematicians at NASA during the Space Race. Born and raised in Hampton, Virginia, she draws inspiration from her hometown's rich history and the contributions of women in science and technology. Shetterly's work has garnered widespread recognition, leading to a successful film adaptation that further amplified the legacy of these remarkable women. In addition to her writing, she is a passionate advocate for diversity in STEM fields and continues to speak on the importance of representation in all areas of society. Through her storytelling, Shetterly aims to inspire future generations to dream big and challenge the status quo.

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