Dorothy Vaughan was an African American mathematician and computer programmer who made significant contributions to the field of mathematics and computer science. She was born on September 20, 1910, in Kansas City, Missouri, and grew up in West Virginia. Vaughan received her bachelor's degree in mathematics from Wilberforce University in 1932 and later received a master's degree in mathematics from the University of Michigan.
Throughout her career, Vaughan made numerous contributions to the field of mathematics and computer science. She worked as a teacher and math instructor at various schools, including the Hampton Institute in Virginia, where she taught math to African American students. In 1943, she joined the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), which later became NASA, as a mathematician.
Vaughan was one of the first African American women to work as a mathematician at NACA. She worked on the calculations for the first supersonic wind tunnel and was responsible for the mathematical calculations that helped to design the Saturn V rocket, which was used in the Apollo 11 mission to land astronauts on the moon. Vaughan also worked on the development of the first computer language for NASA, known as FORTRAN.
In addition to her work as a mathematician and computer programmer, Vaughan was also an active member of the civil rights movement. She was a member of the National Council of Negro Women and participated in various civil rights demonstrations, including the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963.
Vaughan received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to mathematics and computer science. She was inducted into the West Virginia Education Association's Hall of Fame in 1975 and was posthumously inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame in 1993. In 2015, she was portrayed by actress Octavia Spencer in the movie "Hidden Figures," which tells the story of Vaughan and other African American women who made important contributions to NASA's space program.
In conclusion, Dorothy Vaughan was a pioneering mathematician and computer programmer who made significant contributions to the field of mathematics and computer science. She played a vital role in the development of the Saturn V rocket and the first computer language for NASA, and she was also an active member of the civil rights movement. Her work and dedication continue to inspire and encourage future generations of mathematicians and computer scientists.