Hidden Figures Book Summary
The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race
TL;DR
Hidden Figures reveals the untold story of the African American women mathematicians who played pivotal roles at NASA, helping America win the Space Race despite the adversities of segregation and racism.
What is Hidden Figures about
Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly delves into the lives of African American female mathematicians at NASA who were instrumental in some of America's greatest space achievements. The book spans from World War II through the Cold War, Civil Rights Movement, and Space Race, focusing on Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, and Christine Darden. Relegated initially to segregated workplaces, they overcame numerous challenges and made significant contributions that helped propel the United States to the forefront of space exploration.
Hidden Figures 5 Key Takeaways
The Importance of African American Women in Space Achievements
The book highlights the crucial roles played by African American female mathematicians at NASA, who performed complex calculations that were vital for space missions.
Overcoming Racial and Gender Segregation
These women faced severe racial and gender discrimination but persevered to excel in their careers, contributing to significant advancements in aeronautics and space exploration.
The Intersection of Key Historical Movements
Hidden Figures situates the women's stories within the broader context of the Cold War, Space Race, and Civil Rights Movement, showcasing how their achievements intersected with these pivotal events.
Educational and Professional Barriers
Originally working in segregated environments, these women broke barriers, moving from teaching to high-stakes roles at NASA due to labor shortages during World War II.
Individual Stories of Resilience and Achievement
The book chronicles the lives of Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, and Christine Darden, emphasizing their individual contributions and the obstacles they overcame.
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Hidden Figures Best Reviews
- 'A celebration of the genius and tenacity of women who helped America win the Space Race.' - The New York Times
- 'Hidden Figures is essential reading. It is an incredible account of resilience and brilliance, capturing the essence of the American dream.' - The Washington Post
Top Hidden Figures Quotes
- 'Their work was at the heart of the country's greatest battles, right where the American Dream and the Cold War intersected.'
- 'To the moon and back, triumphs and tragedies, the calculations of these women were the silent sentinels of progress.'
Who should read Hidden Figures?
Hidden Figures is ideal for readers interested in American history, space exploration, and civil rights. It offers inspiration and insight, particularly for those who appreciate stories of overcoming racial and gender adversity to achieve groundbreaking success.
Hidden Figures FAQs
What is the purpose of Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly?
The purpose of Hidden Figures is to recover the history of pioneering African American women mathematicians at NASA and situate it within the broader context of the Cold War, Space Race, and Civil Rights Movement.
What age is the Hidden Figures book appropriate for?
The book is recommended for 7th through 12th graders. The young readers' edition is suitable for ages 8-12.