Unlock the Inspiring True Story of Women in STEM with Hidden Figures Book PDF
Hidden Figures book pdf tells the story of African-American women who worked at NASA & played a crucial role in the space race. Download it now!
The book Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly is a captivating true story about the African American women who played a critical role in the success of NASA during the Space Race. This incredible book tells the untold story of how these women, despite facing numerous challenges, broke through the barriers of racial and gender discrimination to become some of the most important figures in the history of space exploration. The book is filled with fascinating details about their lives and their work, and it provides a unique perspective on the space program that has never been seen before.
From the very beginning of the book, readers are drawn into the world of these amazing women. Shetterly's writing is engaging and descriptive, and she does an excellent job of bringing these women to life. She provides vivid descriptions of their personalities, their struggles, and their achievements, making it easy for readers to connect with them on a deeper level. Shetterly also does an excellent job of highlighting the importance of these women's contributions to the space program, and she makes it clear that without them, NASA would not have been able to achieve the incredible things that they did.
One of the most compelling aspects of this book is the way it explores the intersection of race and gender in the workplace. Shetterly does not shy away from the harsh realities of the time period, and she provides a stark reminder of just how difficult it was for African American women to succeed in a world dominated by white men. However, she also highlights the incredible resilience and determination of these women, and she shows how they were able to overcome these obstacles through hard work and perseverance.
In addition to its historical significance, Hidden Figures is also an incredibly inspiring book. It serves as a reminder that with hard work and determination, anything is possible, no matter what barriers may stand in your way. The stories of these women are a testament to the power of human resilience, and they provide an important lesson for anyone who is struggling to achieve their dreams.
Overall, Hidden Figures is an excellent book that is both informative and inspiring. Shetterly has done an incredible job of bringing these women's stories to life, and she has shed light on an important chapter in American history that has long been overlooked. Whether you are interested in space exploration, civil rights, or simply great storytelling, this book is sure to captivate and inspire you.
Chapter by Chapter Summary
Chapter One: The Plantation
The book opens with a description of the small town of Hampton, Virginia, and its surrounding plantations. Shetterly provides a brief history of the area, including its role in the Civil War and its transition to a hub of scientific research during World War II. She then introduces readers to the three women at the center of the story: Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson.
Shetterly provides a detailed description of each woman's background, including their family history and education. She also highlights the racial and gender discrimination that they faced from an early age, and the challenges they had to overcome to pursue their careers in mathematics and engineering.
Chapter Two: Mobilization
This chapter focuses on the role of African Americans in the war effort during World War II. Shetterly provides an overview of the various jobs that African Americans were able to secure, despite facing discrimination and segregation in the workplace. She also highlights the importance of Hampton Institute, a historically black college that played a critical role in training African Americans for these jobs.
The chapter also introduces readers to the Langley Memorial Aeronautical Laboratory, which would later become NASA. Shetterly provides a detailed description of the work being done at Langley, including the development of new aircraft and the use of wind tunnels to test their designs.
Chapter Three: Past Is Prologue
This chapter provides a detailed history of African American education in Virginia, including the establishment of Hampton Institute and other historically black colleges. Shetterly also highlights the role of the NAACP in fighting for civil rights, and the importance of the Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court decision.
The chapter also introduces readers to the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), the predecessor to NASA. Shetterly provides a detailed description of NACA's research, including the use of computers to solve complex mathematical problems.
Chapter Four: The Double V
This chapter focuses on the role of African Americans in the war effort during World War II. Shetterly provides an overview of the various jobs that African Americans were able to secure, despite facing discrimination and segregation in the workplace. She also highlights the importance of Hampton Institute, a historically black college that played a critical role in training African Americans for these jobs.
The chapter also introduces readers to the Langley Memorial Aeronautical Laboratory, which would later become NASA. Shetterly provides a detailed description of the work being done at Langley, including the development of new aircraft and the use of wind tunnels to test their designs.
Chapter Five: From Decks to Computers
This chapter focuses on the role of women in the war effort during World War II. Shetterly provides a detailed description of the various jobs that women were able to secure, including clerical work and factory jobs. She also highlights the challenges that women faced in the workplace, including discrimination and sexual harassment.
The chapter also introduces readers to the West Area Computing unit, a group of African American women who were responsible for performing mathematical calculations at Langley. Shetterly provides a detailed description of the work they did, as well as the challenges they faced in a workplace dominated by white men.
Chapter Six: The Book
This chapter focuses on the role of education in the lives of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson. Shetterly provides a detailed description of the various schools they attended, including the challenges they faced due to segregation and discrimination. She also highlights the importance of education in their lives, and the ways in which it helped them to overcome these challenges.
The chapter also introduces readers to the book Methods of Applied Mathematics, a critical resource for the women at Langley. Shetterly provides a detailed description of the book, as well as its importance in the development of the space program.
Chapter Seven: The Supersonic Years
This chapter focuses on the development of supersonic flight and the space race. Shetterly provides a detailed description of the various challenges that scientists and engineers faced in developing supersonic aircraft, including the problem of sonic booms. She also discusses the importance of the space race in American culture, and the ways in which it was used as a symbol of American ingenuity and superiority.
The chapter also introduces readers to the women who worked on supersonic flight at Langley. Shetterly provides a detailed description of their work, as well as the challenges they faced as women in a male-dominated field.
Chapter Eight: The Girls Are Doing Fine
This chapter focuses on the changing attitudes towards women in the workplace during the 1950s and 1960s. Shetterly provides a detailed description of the ways in which women were able to secure more high-profile jobs, and the challenges they faced as they attempted to break through the glass ceiling. She also highlights the importance of the Civil Rights Movement, and the ways in which it helped to break down racial barriers in the workplace.
The chapter also introduces readers to Dorothy Vaughan's work on the IBM 7090 computer. Shetterly provides a detailed description of the computer, as well as its importance in the development of the space program.
Chapter Nine: The Computer and the Queen
This chapter focuses on Katherine Johnson's work on the Mercury and Apollo programs. Shetterly provides a detailed description of the various challenges that Johnson faced as an African American woman working in a white male-dominated field. She also highlights the importance of Johnson's work, and the ways in which her calculations helped to ensure the success of the space program.
The chapter also introduces readers to Mary Jackson's work on supersonic aircraft. Shetterly provides a detailed description of the challenges that Jackson faced as a woman and an African American, as well as her determination to succeed in the face of adversity.
Chapter Ten: Breaking Barriers
This chapter focuses on the legacy of the women who worked at Langley. Shetterly provides a detailed description of the ways in which their work helped to break down racial and gender barriers in the workplace, and the impact that they had on the space program and American culture as a whole.
She also highlights the continued importance of education in the lives of African Americans, and the ways in which it can be used to overcome discrimination and achieve success.
Conclusion
Overall, Hidden Figures is an incredible book that sheds light on an important chapter in American history. It provides a unique perspective on the space program, and the ways in which African American women played a critical role in its success. Shetterly's writing is engaging and descriptive, and she does an excellent job of bringing these women's stories to life.
Whether you are interested in space exploration, civil rights, or simply great storytelling, this book is sure to captivate and inspire you. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity, and it provides an important lesson for anyone who is struggling to achieve their dreams.
Introduction
Hidden Figures is a non-fiction book that was written by Margot Lee Shetterly. The book focuses on the lives of African-American women who worked as mathematicians for NASA during the Space Race era. The book was first published in 2016 and has since been adapted into a movie. The book is available to read online in PDF format.The Plot
The book tells the story of four African-American women who worked at NASA during the 1960s. The women, Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, and Christine Darden, all played important roles in the Space Race and helped NASA put the first man on the moon. The book explores the challenges that these women faced both in their personal lives and in their careers.Dorothy Vaughan
Dorothy Vaughan was one of the first African-American women to work as a mathematician for NASA. She started her career at the Langley Research Center in Virginia, where she worked as a computer - a term used to describe someone who performed complex calculations manually. Vaughan later became an expert in FORTRAN programming and was responsible for training other women in the field.Mary Jackson
Mary Jackson was another pioneering figure in the field of aerospace engineering. She began her career as a computer at Langley but later went on to become NASA's first female African-American engineer. Jackson fought against discrimination in the workplace and was a vocal advocate for equal rights.Katherine Johnson
Katherine Johnson was perhaps the most well-known of the women featured in Hidden Figures. Johnson was a mathematician who worked on the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo space missions. She was responsible for calculating trajectories and flight paths for the spacecraft. Johnson's work was instrumental in the success of the Apollo 11 mission, which put the first man on the moon.Christine Darden
Christine Darden was one of the later additions to NASA's team of mathematicians. She joined the Langley Research Center in 1967 and quickly made a name for herself in the field of supersonic aerodynamics. Darden's work focused on improving the design of supersonic aircraft.The Importance of Hidden Figures
Hidden Figures is an important book for several reasons. First, it sheds light on the contributions that African-American women made to the Space Race. These women were often overlooked and undervalued by their colleagues and superiors, but their work was crucial to the success of NASA's missions.Second, the book highlights the challenges that these women faced as both women and people of color in a white, male-dominated field. The women featured in the book had to fight against discrimination and prejudice in order to succeed in their careers.Finally, the book serves as an inspiration to young women and people of color who are interested in pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The women featured in Hidden Figures were trailblazers in their field and paved the way for future generations of scientists and engineers.Conclusion
In conclusion, Hidden Figures is a powerful and inspiring book that tells the story of four remarkable women who played an important role in the Space Race. The book shines a light on the contributions that African-American women made to NASA and highlights the challenges that these women faced in their personal and professional lives. Hidden Figures is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of space exploration or the struggle for civil rights.The Untold Story of Women in Science: Hidden Figures Book PDF Review
When it comes to the history of science, most people are familiar with the names of famous male scientists like Albert Einstein or Isaac Newton. But what about the women who contributed to scientific advancement? Unfortunately, their stories have often been overlooked or forgotten. That's why the book Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly is such an important read.In this article, we'll explore the themes and ideas presented in Hidden Figures. We'll examine the struggle for equality in the space race, the triumphs and challenges of black female mathematicians, the fight against discrimination in the workplace, and more. By the end, you'll understand why this book is so much more than just a story about science.The Struggle for Equality in the Space Race
At its core, Hidden Figures is a book about the space race between the United States and the Soviet Union. But instead of focusing on the astronauts who went to space, the book shifts the focus to the behind-the-scenes work of mathematicians and engineers at NASA.One of the key themes in the book is the struggle for equality in the space race. In the 1960s, segregation was still a reality in many parts of the United States, and NASA was no exception. Black women were often relegated to menial tasks, despite their advanced education and skills.The book follows the stories of three black female mathematicians who worked at NASA: Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson. Despite facing discrimination and obstacles at every turn, these women worked tirelessly to contribute to the space program's success. They calculated trajectories, programmed computers, and solved complex mathematical problems that made space travel possible.Through their stories, we see how the fight for civil rights intersected with the space race. The book shows how people from all walks of life came together to work towards a common goal, despite the challenges they faced.The Triumphs and Challenges of Black Female Mathematicians
Hidden Figures is a tribute to the incredible achievements of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson. These women were pioneers in their field, breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations of female scientists and mathematicians.But the book also highlights the challenges that these women faced in their careers. They had to navigate a workplace that was often hostile to women and people of color, and they had to fight for recognition and respect for their contributions.Despite these obstacles, the women of Hidden Figures excelled in their fields. They used their intelligence, creativity, and perseverance to make groundbreaking discoveries and solve complex problems. Their work was essential to the success of NASA's space program, and their legacy continues to inspire and empower others today.The Fight Against Discrimination in the Workplace
Hidden Figures is also a story about the fight against discrimination in the workplace. The book shows how Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson had to overcome systemic barriers in order to succeed in their careers.For example, Dorothy Vaughan was a skilled programmer who worked with the earliest computers at NASA. However, she was not given the same opportunities as her white male colleagues. When NASA introduced new IBM computers, Vaughan took it upon herself to learn how to program them. She then taught her fellow black female colleagues how to use the new technology, which enabled them to take on more complex tasks.Similarly, Mary Jackson fought for the right to attend engineering courses that were only open to white students. She successfully petitioned for the right to attend the classes, and went on to become NASA's first black female engineer.The book shows how these women used their intelligence and determination to overcome discrimination and achieve success in their careers. Their stories are a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of fighting for equality in the workplace.The Impact of World War II on Women's Careers
Hidden Figures also explores the impact of World War II on women's careers. During the war, many men were drafted or enlisted in the military, leaving a gap in the workforce. This created opportunities for women to take on jobs that were traditionally held by men.Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson all began their careers as human computers at NASA's predecessor agency, the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA). They were among a group of women who were hired during World War II to perform complex calculations for the agency.After the war ended, many of these women were let go from their jobs. However, Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson were able to continue their careers at NACA and later at NASA. Their experiences show how the war opened up new opportunities for women in science and technology, and how those opportunities continued to grow in the decades that followed.The Role of Education in Breaking Barriers
Hidden Figures also emphasizes the role of education in breaking down barriers. Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson all had advanced degrees in mathematics or engineering, which gave them the skills they needed to contribute to NASA's space program.However, their education was not enough to overcome the discrimination they faced. They also needed to be persistent, creative, and willing to take risks in order to succeed in their careers.The book highlights the importance of providing equal access to education for all students, regardless of race or gender. It also shows how mentorship and support networks can help young people overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.The Importance of Mentorship and Support Networks
Throughout Hidden Figures, we see the importance of mentorship and support networks in helping people overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson all had mentors who recognized their potential and encouraged them to pursue their dreams.For example, Katherine Johnson's high school math teacher recognized her talent and encouraged her to attend college. Later, Johnson was mentored by physicist John Young, who recognized her potential and recommended her for a job at NASA.Similarly, Dorothy Vaughan was mentored by a white male supervisor, who recognized her programming skills and gave her opportunities to work with new technology. Vaughan also formed a support network with her fellow black female colleagues, which enabled them to share knowledge and support each other in the workplace.These mentorship and support networks were essential to the success of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson. They show how having people who believe in you and support your goals can make all the difference in achieving success.The Legacy of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson
Hidden Figures is a tribute to the legacy of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson. These women broke down barriers and paved the way for future generations of female scientists and mathematicians.Their legacy continues to inspire and empower others today. In 2015, President Barack Obama awarded Katherine Johnson the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States. In 2017, NASA's Langley Research Center was renamed the Katherine G. Johnson Computational Research Facility in her honor.Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson have also been recognized for their contributions to NASA's space program. In 2019, NASA renamed its headquarters building in Washington, D.C. the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters in her honor.The legacy of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson is a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and intelligence. Their stories offer hope and inspiration to anyone who has faced obstacles in pursuing their dreams.The Intersection of Race and Gender in STEM Fields
Hidden Figures also highlights the intersection of race and gender in STEM fields. The book shows how black women faced unique challenges in pursuing careers in science and technology, and how their contributions were often overlooked or undervalued.However, the book also shows how black women were able to use their unique perspectives and experiences to make significant contributions to their fields. Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson were all able to bring a fresh perspective to the problems they were solving, which enabled them to come up with innovative solutions.The book shows that diversity in STEM fields is essential for progress and innovation. By including voices from all backgrounds, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society.The Inspiration and Empowerment of Hidden Figures
Hidden Figures is an inspiring and empowering book that offers hope and encouragement to anyone who has faced obstacles in pursuing their dreams. It shows how persistence, creativity, and determination can overcome even the most daunting challenges.The book is also a call to action for greater diversity and inclusion in STEM fields. It shows how everyone, regardless of race or gender, has the potential to make significant contributions to science and technology.If you're looking for a book that will inspire you to pursue your dreams and fight for equality, Hidden Figures is a must-read. It's a powerful reminder of the incredible achievements of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, and the impact they had on the world around them.Point of View about Hidden Figures Book PDF
Introduction
Hidden Figures is a non-fiction book written by Margot Lee Shetterly, which was adapted into a movie in 2016. The book highlights the untold story of African American women who worked as human computers at NASA during the space race era. The book is available in PDF format, making it easily accessible to readers worldwide.Pros of Hidden Figures Book PDF
- The book is easily accessible and available for download on various online platforms.
- Readers can access the book on different electronic devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers.
- The PDF format allows readers to read and navigate the book easily without any restrictions or limitations.
- Readers can zoom in or out to read small fonts, and they can also adjust the brightness of their screens to suit their reading preferences.
Cons of Hidden Figures Book PDF
- Some people prefer reading physical books rather than digital ones, which may limit their reading experience.
- Reading on electronic devices such as smartphones and tablets may cause eye strain and fatigue.
- Downloading the PDF file from untrusted websites may expose readers to viruses or malware that could harm their devices.
- The PDF file may not be compatible with some e-readers or devices, which may limit readers' options.
Table Comparison or Information about Hidden Figures Book PDF
| Aspect | Physical Book | PDF Book |
|---|---|---|
| Accessibility | May not be easily accessible in some countries or regions. | Easily accessible and available for download worldwide. |
| Portability | Heavy and bulky, which may limit readers' mobility. | Lightweight and easily portable on electronic devices. |
| Reading Experience | Offers a tactile and sensory reading experience. | Offers a customizable and adjustable reading experience. |
| Cost | May be more expensive than the PDF version. | Usually less expensive than the physical version. |
Hidden Figures Book PDF: A Must-Read for Everyone
Greetings, dear readers! As we come to the end of this article, I hope that you have enjoyed reading about the book Hidden Figures and its significance. If you have not had the chance to read it yet, I highly recommend that you do so. Here's why:
The book provides a unique perspective on the history of NASA and the African American women who played critical roles in the space program. It is a story of perseverance, intelligence, and resilience in the face of adversity. You will be inspired by the stories of Katherine Johnson, Mary Jackson, and Dorothy Vaughan, and their contributions to space exploration.
Furthermore, Hidden Figures sheds light on the challenges faced by women and people of color in the workplace during the 20th century. It offers insight into how far we have come in terms of diversity and inclusion, but also highlights how much work still needs to be done.
If you are interested in history, science, or social justice, this book is a must-read. It is well-researched, informative, and engaging. You will learn about the early days of the space race, the role of computers in spaceflight, and the impact of the civil rights movement on American society.
Another reason to read Hidden Figures is that it has been adapted into a major motion picture, which was released in 2016. The movie stars Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe as the three main characters, and has received critical acclaim for its portrayal of the women and their story.
Whether you prefer to read the book or watch the movie, Hidden Figures is a story that deserves to be told and remembered. It is a reminder of the power of human potential and the importance of diversity in achieving great things.
In conclusion, I want to thank you for taking the time to read this article. I hope that it has inspired you to learn more about the remarkable women of Hidden Figures and their contributions to American history and science. Remember to always keep an open mind and embrace diversity, for it is through our differences that we can achieve greatness.
Until next time, happy reading!
People Also Ask About Hidden Figures Book PDF
What is Hidden Figures book about?
The Hidden Figures book is a non-fiction work by Margot Lee Shetterly, which tells the story of African-American women who worked as mathematicians at NASA during the space race era. The book highlights the incredible contributions of these women to NASA's success, despite the racial and gender discrimination they faced.
Is Hidden Figures book based on a true story?
Yes, Hidden Figures is a true story based on the lives and experiences of the African-American female mathematicians who worked at NASA during the 1960s. The book is a tribute to these women and their significant contributions to the space program.
Where can I find the Hidden Figures book in PDF format?
The Hidden Figures book is available in PDF format on various online platforms. You can find it on Amazon, Google Books, and other e-book websites. You may also be able to find a free PDF version of the book on certain websites, but be cautious when downloading from unofficial sources.
Is there a movie based on the Hidden Figures book?
Yes, there is a movie based on the Hidden Figures book, which was released in 2016. The film stars Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe in the lead roles and tells the inspiring story of the African-American women who played a pivotal role in the early days of NASA's space program.
What lessons can be learned from the Hidden Figures book?
The Hidden Figures book teaches us about the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace, especially in fields like science and technology. It also highlights the power of determination, hard work, and perseverance in the face of adversity. The book inspires readers to pursue their dreams and overcome any obstacles that may arise.
- The Hidden Figures book is a non-fiction work by Margot Lee Shetterly, which tells the story of African-American women who worked as mathematicians at NASA during the space race era.
- Yes, Hidden Figures is a true story based on the lives and experiences of the African-American female mathematicians who worked at NASA during the 1960s.
- The Hidden Figures book is available in PDF format on various online platforms. You can find it on Amazon, Google Books, and other e-book websites.
- Yes, there is a movie based on the Hidden Figures book, which was released in 2016. The film stars Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe in the lead roles.
- The Hidden Figures book teaches us about the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace and inspires readers to pursue their dreams and overcome any obstacles that may arise.