hidden figures viewing guide

This guide is designed to help you explore the inspiring story of three black women mathematicians who played a crucial role in the success of NASA’s early space program. It will delve into the film’s historical context‚ its main characters‚ and the themes it explores. You’ll also find discussion questions to spark deeper thought and reflection.

Introduction

“Hidden Figures” is a captivating film that sheds light on the untold stories of three brilliant African American women mathematicians‚ Katherine Johnson‚ Mary Jackson‚ and Dorothy Vaughan‚ who worked at NASA during the early days of the space race. This film‚ based on the non-fiction book of the same name by Margot Lee Shetterly‚ takes viewers on a journey through a pivotal time in American history‚ highlighting the struggles and triumphs of these remarkable women who faced not only the challenges of a rapidly evolving scientific field but also the pervasive racism and sexism of the era.

The film beautifully intertwines the personal journeys of these women with the larger narrative of the space race‚ showcasing their unwavering dedication to their work and their fight for equal opportunities. “Hidden Figures” is more than just a story about the space race; it’s a testament to the power of human ingenuity‚ the importance of diversity‚ and the enduring struggle for equality and recognition. It’s a story that reminds us that progress is often made through the contributions of those who are often overlooked‚ and that true success is built on a foundation of inclusivity and respect.

The Story of Hidden Figures

“Hidden Figures” takes place in the 1960s‚ during the height of the space race between the United States and the Soviet Union. At NASA’s Langley Research Center in Virginia‚ a group of African American women known as “human computers” were responsible for performing complex mathematical calculations that were crucial to the success of the space program. The film focuses on the experiences of three of these women⁚ Katherine Johnson‚ a brilliant mathematician whose calculations were essential for the successful launch of John Glenn into orbit; Mary Jackson‚ an engineer who faced significant barriers to becoming the first black female engineer at NASA; and Dorothy Vaughan‚ a skilled programmer who fought to be recognized for her talent and to lead a team of black women who were initially relegated to a segregated computing unit.

The film follows the women as they navigate the challenges of working in a racially segregated environment‚ where their skills were often underestimated and their contributions overlooked. They faced discrimination and prejudice both within and outside the workplace‚ but they remained dedicated to their work and determined to prove their worth. “Hidden Figures” offers a compelling glimpse into the lives of these extraordinary women and their struggles for recognition and equality. It’s a story of resilience‚ determination‚ and the power of human connection in overcoming adversity.

The Main Characters

“Hidden Figures” centers around three remarkable women who defied societal norms and made significant contributions to the space race⁚ Katherine Johnson‚ Mary Jackson‚ and Dorothy Vaughan. Katherine Johnson‚ a brilliant mathematician‚ is known for her meticulous calculations that were crucial for the successful launch of John Glenn into orbit. She faced numerous challenges‚ including having to walk miles every day to use a separate bathroom for black employees‚ and her contributions were initially overlooked by her white colleagues. Mary Jackson‚ an ambitious engineer‚ faced even greater obstacles as she strived to become the first black female engineer at NASA. She had to overcome discriminatory policies and prove her expertise through rigorous testing to be officially recognized as an engineer.

Dorothy Vaughan‚ a skilled programmer‚ fought for her team of black female “human computers” to be recognized for their talent and to be given the opportunity to work on more challenging projects. She faced the challenge of leading a team that was initially relegated to a segregated computing unit‚ but her determination and resilience allowed her to push for equality and advancement for her team. These three women‚ each with their unique talents and struggles‚ exemplify the power of perseverance‚ intelligence‚ and courage in the face of adversity. Their stories highlight the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of all individuals‚ regardless of their race or gender.

Katherine Johnson

Katherine Johnson‚ a brilliant mathematician‚ is one of the most celebrated figures in “Hidden Figures.” Her story highlights her crucial role in NASA’s early space program‚ where she calculated trajectories for the first American astronauts‚ including John Glenn’s historic orbit around Earth. The film depicts her exceptional talent and the challenges she faced due to racial segregation. Johnson’s contributions were initially overlooked‚ as she was forced to work in a segregated computing unit and was not even allowed to use the same restroom facilities as her white colleagues. Despite these obstacles‚ she persevered‚ and her calculations proved essential for the success of NASA’s missions.

Katherine Johnson’s determination and brilliance are inspiring. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of all individuals‚ regardless of their race or gender. Her resilience and unwavering commitment to her work made her a true pioneer‚ and her legacy continues to inspire generations of mathematicians and scientists. The film emphasizes the significance of her contributions‚ highlighting the vital role she played in the advancement of space exploration.

Mary Jackson

Mary Jackson‚ another remarkable woman featured in “Hidden Figures‚” embodies the spirit of determination and the fight for equality. As a skilled engineer‚ Jackson faced a formidable challenge⁚ breaking down racial barriers to achieve her aspirations; The film showcases her journey to become NASA’s first black female engineer‚ a path paved with relentless effort and the courage to defy societal norms. She faced numerous obstacles‚ including discriminatory practices that prevented her from accessing the necessary education and professional opportunities.

Mary Jackson’s unwavering pursuit of her dreams serves as a powerful testament to the importance of fighting for what is right. Her story highlights the systemic inequalities that existed during the era‚ but also the indomitable spirit that can overcome such challenges. The film captures the essence of her struggle and her ultimate triumph‚ inspiring viewers to recognize the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. “Hidden Figures” portrays Jackson’s resilience and her unwavering commitment to her career‚ leaving a lasting impact on the fight for equality in the field of engineering.

Dorothy Vaughan

Dorothy Vaughan‚ a pivotal figure in “Hidden Figures‚” is portrayed as a brilliant mathematician and a strong leader who navigated the complexities of both racial segregation and the evolving world of computing. As the head of the “human computers” at NASA‚ Vaughan faced the challenge of leading a team of black women who were often relegated to second-class status within the organization. She fought tirelessly to ensure her team received the recognition and opportunities they deserved‚ while also striving to advance their skills in the face of technological advancements.

Vaughan’s story highlights the importance of leadership and the power of collective action. She not only excelled in her own field but also championed the professional growth of her colleagues. The film underscores the importance of mentorship and the role of individuals in driving positive change within organizations. Vaughan’s determination to overcome systemic barriers and advocate for her team’s progress serves as an inspiration for all those who seek to create a more equitable and inclusive workplace.

The Historical Context

The story of “Hidden Figures” unfolds against the backdrop of a pivotal era in American history‚ marked by both remarkable scientific advancements and deep societal divisions. The film takes place during the 1960s‚ a period characterized by the Space Race‚ the Cold War‚ and the Civil Rights Movement. The Space Race‚ a competition between the United States and the Soviet Union to achieve dominance in space exploration‚ fueled a surge in scientific research and technological innovation. The Cold War‚ a period of geopolitical tension between the two superpowers‚ also contributed to the scientific advancements that propelled the space program forward.

However‚ these advancements were achieved against the backdrop of the Civil Rights Movement‚ a struggle for racial equality and justice that challenged the deeply ingrained system of segregation and discrimination in the United States. The film’s setting highlights the intersection of these powerful historical forces and the challenges faced by black Americans‚ particularly women‚ who sought to contribute to the nation’s scientific progress. The story of “Hidden Figures” underscores the significance of understanding the historical context in which these events occurred‚ and the complex interplay of social‚ political‚ and scientific forces that shaped this period.

The Space Race

The Space Race‚ a pivotal event of the 20th century‚ serves as a central theme in “Hidden Figures.” It was a thrilling competition between the United States and the Soviet Union to achieve dominance in space exploration. The launch of Sputnik 1 by the Soviet Union in 1957 shocked the United States and ignited a fierce rivalry for supremacy in space. The race to put a man in space and reach the moon became a symbol of technological prowess and national pride. The film highlights the intense pressure and urgency that fueled the space program‚ as the US sought to catch up and surpass its rival.

The Space Race created a demand for brilliant minds and innovative technologies‚ leading to a surge in scientific and engineering advancements. NASA‚ the newly formed space agency‚ became a hub for ambitious research and development. It was within this context that Katherine Johnson‚ Dorothy Vaughan‚ and Mary Jackson‚ the three black women mathematicians featured in the film‚ made their remarkable contributions. Their skills and expertise were essential to the success of many space missions‚ including the launch of John Glenn into orbit and the Apollo 11 moon landing. The Space Race‚ with its backdrop of international competition‚ technological innovation‚ and the pursuit of human exploration‚ provides a compelling context for the story of these hidden figures.

The Civil Rights Movement

The Civil Rights Movement‚ a defining period in American history‚ provides a crucial backdrop for “Hidden Figures.” The film takes place during the 1960s‚ a time marked by significant progress in the fight for racial equality. The Civil Rights Movement‚ through its protests‚ marches‚ and legal battles‚ challenged segregation and discrimination‚ striving to ensure equal rights for all citizens. The film depicts the stark reality of Jim Crow laws‚ which mandated racial segregation in many aspects of life‚ including public facilities‚ transportation‚ and education.

The characters in “Hidden Figures” navigate a world where racial prejudice and discrimination are deeply ingrained in society. Katherine Johnson‚ Dorothy Vaughan‚ and Mary Jackson face countless obstacles due to their race‚ from being denied access to facilities reserved for white employees to facing prejudice from colleagues. The film explores how these women‚ while contributing to the advancement of science and technology‚ also had to fight for their right to be recognized for their talents and contributions; The Civil Rights Movement serves as a reminder of the struggles for equality faced by African Americans‚ highlighting the resilience and determination of those who fought for social justice.

Themes Explored in the Film

“Hidden Figures” delves into a multitude of themes that resonate deeply with audiences. One central theme is the power of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. The three protagonists‚ Katherine‚ Dorothy‚ and Mary‚ confront numerous obstacles‚ including racial discrimination‚ gender bias‚ and societal limitations. Yet‚ their determination and unwavering commitment to their work‚ coupled with their unwavering belief in their abilities‚ enable them to overcome these challenges and achieve remarkable success.

The film also explores the importance of breaking barriers and challenging societal norms. The achievements of Katherine‚ Dorothy‚ and Mary serve as a testament to the power of defying expectations and pushing boundaries. They demonstrate that talent and intelligence transcend racial and gender limitations‚ inspiring others to pursue their dreams regardless of societal constraints. Through their struggles and triumphs‚ the film highlights the significance of fighting for equality and challenging the status quo.

Discussion Questions

After watching “Hidden Figures‚” engage in a thoughtful discussion using these prompts to deepen your understanding of the film’s themes and its historical context⁚

• How does the film depict the challenges faced by black women in the 1960s? What specific examples of discrimination and prejudice are shown?
• How did the film’s characters overcome these challenges? What strategies did they use to achieve their goals?
• How did the film portray the relationship between the space race and the civil rights movement? How did these two historical events intersect?
• What are the broader implications of the film’s message about the importance of diversity‚ inclusion‚ and the power of human potential?
• How does the film inspire us to challenge societal norms and fight for equality? What lessons can we take away from the story of Katherine‚ Dorothy‚ and Mary?

By engaging in these discussions‚ you can gain a deeper understanding of the film’s message‚ its historical context‚ and its relevance to contemporary society.