Introduction
In the annals of American history, there are countless stories of unsung heroes whose contributions have shaped the nation's progress. "Hidden Figures" by Margot Lee Shetterly uncovers one such remarkable tale – the story of African American women mathematicians who played a crucial role in NASA's space program during a time of intense racial and gender discrimination.
This book takes us back to the mid-20th century, when the United States was in the throes of World War II and later, the Space Race. It introduces us to a group of brilliant black women who, despite facing numerous obstacles, became an integral part of America's aeronautics and space programs. These women, known as "computers," performed complex mathematical calculations by hand, helping to design safer, faster aircraft and eventually, to launch astronauts into space.
Shetterly's narrative is not just about scientific achievement; it's a powerful account of resilience, determination, and the fight for equality. Through the lives of these extraordinary women, we gain insight into the broader struggles of the civil rights movement and the slow but steady progress towards workplace integration.
The Birth of the West Computers
The story begins in the 1940s, a time when racial segregation was still deeply entrenched in American society. The setting is Langley Memorial Aeronautical Laboratory in Hampton, Virginia, the research headquarters of what would later become NASA. At this time, it was known as NACA (National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics).
As World War II raged on, NACA found itself in desperate need of skilled mathematicians to support the rapidly growing aircraft industry. This demand, coupled with President Franklin D. Roosevelt's executive orders desegregating the defense industry, opened up unprecedented opportunities for black women in science and mathematics.
The first group of black female mathematicians hired at Langley became known as the "West Computers," named after the segregated west section of the Langley campus where they worked. These women were pioneers in every sense of the word. They left behind teaching jobs (often considered the pinnacle of professional achievement for educated black women at the time) and moved to a new city, facing numerous challenges along the way.
The exact number of women who worked as computers at NACA (and later NASA) is still unknown, but estimates suggest it could have been in the hundreds or even thousands. Among these, about seventy black women worked at Langley between 1943 and 1980, forming the core of what would become a remarkable legacy.
Overcoming Discrimination and Segregation
Life for the West Computers was far from easy. They faced discrimination on multiple fronts – as women in a male-dominated field and as black individuals in a segregated society. The book vividly describes the everyday indignities they had to endure.
Housing was a significant challenge. While white employees could live in the Anne Wythe Hall dormitory and use a special bus service, black computers had to find their own accommodations in neighborhoods far from work. This often meant long, tiring commutes on overcrowded, segregated buses.
At work, segregation was a constant reminder of their second-class status. There were separate bathrooms, water fountains, and dining areas for black employees. In the cafeteria, a sign reading "Colored Computers" designated where they were allowed to sit.
Despite these demeaning circumstances, the West Computers showed remarkable resilience and dignity. One striking example is the story of Miriam Mann, who took it upon herself to remove the "Colored Computers" sign from the cafeteria. Each time the sign was replaced, she would take it down again, persisting until whoever was responsible for the sign finally gave up.
Another inspiring figure was Katherine Johnson, who refused to use the distant "colored" bathroom and instead used the closer white bathroom. Her quiet act of defiance was a small but significant step towards integration.
Breaking Barriers in Science and Engineering
The women of the West Computers group were not content to simply accept the status quo. They consistently pushed boundaries and sought opportunities for advancement, even in the face of both racial and gender discrimination.
One of the most significant barriers they faced was the near impossibility of promotion. While white male mathematicians often enjoyed mentorship from senior engineers and were given opportunities for advancement, black women were typically confined to lower-level positions regardless of their skills or experience.
Dorothy Vaughan's story exemplifies both the challenges and the triumphs of this era. In 1951, she became Langley's first black manager when she was appointed supervisor of the West Computers. From this position, she worked tirelessly to help other women, both black and white, secure promotions. Vaughan's achievement was all the more remarkable given that she was also raising four children and helping to elevate her family into the middle class.
Another trailblazer was Christine Darden, who confronted her division chief about the lack of promotion opportunities for women. Her bold move led to her promotion to an engineering team, launching a forty-year career at NASA that saw her become one of the world's leading experts on sonic-boom research.
Perhaps the most famous of the West Computers was Katherine Johnson. She broke numerous barriers throughout her career, becoming a member of the flight research division and the first woman in that division to author her own report – an innovative paper on orbital flight. Her mathematical skills would later prove crucial to the success of America's space program.
The Space Race and Beyond
As the Cold War intensified and the Space Race began, the role of the West Computers evolved. The transition from NACA to NASA in 1958 marked a shift in focus from aeronautics to space exploration, and the skills of these talented mathematicians became more vital than ever.
Katherine Johnson's contributions during this period were particularly significant. In 1962, she performed critical calculations for the flight that sent the first U.S. astronaut, John Glenn, into orbit around the Earth. In a testament to the trust placed in her abilities, Glenn specifically requested that Johnson verify the computer's calculations before he would agree to the flight.
Seven years later, Johnson's expertise was called upon again for the Apollo 11 mission that would land Neil Armstrong on the moon. Once more, her calculations proved flawless, playing a crucial role in one of humanity's greatest achievements.
The story of the West Computers is set against the backdrop of major societal changes. The 1954 Brown v. Board of Education decision, which declared segregated schools unconstitutional, marked a turning point in the civil rights movement. However, progress was slow and often met with fierce resistance, particularly in Virginia where Langley was located.
The book describes how Virginia's political leaders, including Senator Harry Byrd and Governor J. Lindsay Almond, fought against integration, even threatening to defund schools rather than allow them to be integrated. This was the challenging political climate in which the West Computers lived and worked, making their achievements all the more remarkable.
The Legacy of the West Computers
As the 1970s dawned, technological advancements began to make the role of human computers obsolete. However, by this time, many of the West Computers had transitioned into other roles within NASA, leaving an indelible mark on the organization and on the field of aeronautics and space exploration.
The legacy of these women extends far beyond their technical contributions. They were pioneers in the fight for workplace equality, paving the way for future generations of women and minorities in STEM fields. Their perseverance in the face of discrimination helped to slowly but surely break down barriers and change perceptions about the capabilities of black women in science and mathematics.
The story of the West Computers also sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of women and minorities to some of America's greatest scientific and technological achievements. It challenges the traditional narrative of the Space Race, which has typically focused on the achievements of white male astronauts and engineers.
Recognition and Reflection
For many years, the contributions of the West Computers went largely unrecognized. However, in recent years, there has been a growing effort to acknowledge and celebrate their achievements.
In 2015, Katherine Johnson was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, in recognition of her groundbreaking work at NASA. The publication of "Hidden Figures" and its subsequent adaptation into a popular film have further helped to bring this important story to public attention.
The belated recognition of these women's achievements raises important questions about whose stories get told in our historical narratives and why. It highlights the need for a more inclusive approach to documenting and celebrating scientific and technological progress.
The Broader Impact
The story of the West Computers is not just about individual achievement; it's a testament to the power of diversity in driving innovation and progress. These women brought unique perspectives and problem-solving approaches to their work, enriching the scientific community at Langley and beyond.
Their story also serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of equal opportunity in education and employment. Despite facing numerous obstacles, these women were able to make significant contributions when given the chance. It raises the question of how much talent and potential has been lost over the years due to discrimination and lack of opportunity.
Furthermore, the experiences of the West Computers highlight the intersection of various social movements of the mid-20th century – the civil rights movement, the women's rights movement, and the push for scientific and technological advancement. Their story demonstrates how progress in one area often goes hand in hand with progress in others.
Lessons for Today
While much has changed since the days of the West Computers, many of the issues they faced continue to resonate today. Women and minorities remain underrepresented in STEM fields, and issues of workplace discrimination and unequal opportunity persist.
The story of the West Computers offers several important lessons for addressing these ongoing challenges:
The importance of mentorship and support networks: Despite the obstacles they faced, many of the West Computers were able to advance their careers thanks to the support and mentorship of others. This underscores the critical role that mentorship can play in fostering diversity in STEM fields.
The value of persistence: The women of the West Computers group didn't give up in the face of discrimination. They continued to push for recognition and advancement, gradually breaking down barriers along the way.
The need for institutional change: While individual efforts are important, the story of the West Computers also highlights the need for broader institutional and societal changes to create truly equal opportunities.
The power of visibility: For many years, the achievements of the West Computers were largely invisible. Their story reminds us of the importance of recognizing and celebrating diverse contributions to science and technology.
Conclusion
"Hidden Figures" is more than just a historical account; it's a powerful reminder of the often-overlooked contributions of women and minorities to scientific and technological progress. It challenges us to reconsider our understanding of pivotal moments in American history and to recognize the diverse cast of characters who have shaped our world.
The story of the West Computers is one of extraordinary talent, unwavering determination, and quiet heroism. These women not only advanced the frontiers of aeronautics and space exploration but also pushed forward the boundaries of what was possible for black women in America.
Their legacy continues to inspire new generations of scientists, engineers, and mathematicians, reminding us that talent and brilliance know no racial or gender boundaries. As we continue to strive for equality and diversity in all fields, the story of the West Computers serves as both a celebration of how far we've come and a call to action for the work that still lies ahead.
In bringing this hidden chapter of history to light, Margot Lee Shetterly has done more than just tell a compelling story. She has helped to rewrite our understanding of the Space Race, the civil rights movement, and the ongoing struggle for workplace equality. "Hidden Figures" stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of equal opportunity, and the incredible achievements that become possible when artificial barriers are removed and all talents are allowed to flourish.
As we look to the future and to new frontiers in science and technology, the story of the West Computers reminds us of the importance of fostering diversity and inclusion in all fields. It challenges us to consider whose stories we tell, whose contributions we celebrate, and how we can create a world where no brilliant mind is held back by prejudice or lack of opportunity.
In the end, "Hidden Figures" is not just about the past; it's a roadmap for a more inclusive and equitable future. It's a call to recognize and nurture talent wherever it may be found, to break down barriers that hold people back, and to celebrate the diverse tapestry of human achievement that has shaped our world and will continue to shape our future.