These brilliant mathematicians, nicknamed the "human computers," played a capital role in the successes of the first American space missions, notably John Glenn's orbital flight, at a time when racial segregation and gender discrimination were commonplace.
Their fight for recognition of their skills and work echoes that of Margaret Hamilton. Although their areas of expertise were different (mathematical calculations for some, software engineering for the other), they all evolved in an environment where barriers related to their gender and, for the "Hidden Figures," their ethnic origin, were omnipresent. They had to demonstrate remarkable perseverance and intelligence to overcome these obstacles and prove their worth.
Hidden Figures, 2016
This film reminds us that the space conquest is not only the story of heroic astronauts, but also that of many women who, in the shadows, made fundamental scientific and technical contributions.
→ The book the film is adapted from!Trailer
Also read
-
Feminine Lights
The invisibilization of women in science and why it is necessary to talk about it
-
Science told in the feminine
Analysis of the representation of women scientists in fiction, often isolated or marginalized, reflecting the obstacles encountered in reality.
-
Other films
Selection of works highlighting women in science and technology, to extend the reflection in a cultural way.