Hidden Figures Movie Guide: Answer Key ー Overview
Hidden Figures explores the untold true story of brilliant African-American women at NASA, pivotal to early space exploration. This guide provides detailed answers and analysis.
Hidden Figures, released in 2016, dramatically recounts the vital contributions of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson – African-American mathematicians who worked at NASA during the Space Race. The film skillfully blends historical accuracy with compelling storytelling, shedding light on their previously unrecognized roles.
It’s a powerful narrative about overcoming systemic racial and gender barriers within a highly competitive and crucial scientific environment. The movie isn’t simply a biographical account; it’s a celebration of intellect, resilience, and the pursuit of equality. This guide will help unpack the film’s complexities and significance.
Historical Context: The Space Race
The Space Race, a 20th-century competition between the United States and the Soviet Union, heavily influenced the setting of Hidden Figures. Triggered by the Soviet launch of Sputnik in 1957, it spurred intense investment in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
NASA, established in 1958, became central to this effort, requiring a massive workforce, including skilled “human computers” like the women depicted in the film. The Cold War anxieties fueled the urgency, demanding rapid advancements in space exploration. This context underscores the critical, yet often overlooked, contributions of these brilliant mathematicians.
The Significance of Langley Research Center
Langley Research Center, featured prominently in Hidden Figures, held immense importance during the early Space Race. As NASA’s first field center, established in 1917, Langley focused on aerodynamic research crucial for flight. It became the hub for much of the early spaceflight planning and testing.
The West Area Computing unit, where Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson worked, was located at Langley. This unit was initially segregated, highlighting the racial barriers of the time. Langley’s work was foundational to projects like Project Mercury, making it a vital location in American space history.
Key Characters and Their Contributions
Hidden Figures centers on Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, whose exceptional mathematical skills and determination propelled America’s space program forward.
Katherine Johnson: Trajectory Calculations
Katherine Johnson was a human computer whose calculations of flight trajectories were critical to the success of Project Mercury and the Apollo 11 mission. Initially, she faced segregation and exclusion, yet her brilliance shone through.
Her work involved complex geometry and trigonometry, performed with incredible accuracy. Johnson verified the calculations made by early IBM computers, becoming a trusted resource for astronauts like John Glenn. Glenn famously requested she personally re-check the computer’s calculations before his orbital flight, demonstrating his faith in her abilities. This scene highlights her vital role and the overcoming of prejudice.
Dorothy Vaughan: The First African-American Supervisor
Dorothy Vaughan demonstrated exceptional leadership and foresight, becoming NASA’s first African-American supervisor. Recognizing the impending shift to computer technology, she proactively taught herself and her team FORTRAN programming.
This strategic move ensured their continued relevance and job security as IBM computers began to automate calculations. Vaughan’s dedication to her team extended beyond technical skills; she advocated for their advancement and equal treatment within the segregated workplace. Her story exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to empowering others in the face of systemic discrimination.
Mary Jackson: Breaking Barriers as an Engineer
Mary Jackson relentlessly pursued her dream of becoming NASA’s first African-American female engineer. Facing significant obstacles due to segregation, she petitioned the city of Hampton to allow her to attend night classes at the then-segregated Hampton High School, required for advanced coursework.
Jackson’s determination and academic success led to her being granted permission, paving the way for her engineering career. She contributed significantly to NASA’s understanding of airflow and vehicle performance, demonstrating exceptional skill and breaking down racial and gender barriers within the field.
Analyzing the Challenges Faced
Hidden Figures powerfully illustrates the systemic racial segregation and gender inequality endured by brilliant Black women at NASA during the Space Race era.
Racial Segregation and Discrimination
The film vividly portrays the pervasive racial segregation of the 1960s, showcasing separate restrooms and “colored” computing sections at Langley. Katherine, Dorothy, and Mary constantly navigate discriminatory practices, facing microaggressions and limited opportunities due to their race.
These women demonstrate resilience in the face of blatant prejudice, challenging the established norms of a segregated workplace. The narrative highlights the indignity of separate facilities and the constant need to prove their intellectual capabilities despite societal biases. Hidden Figures doesn’t shy away from depicting the emotional toll of systemic racism.
Gender Inequality in STEM
Hidden Figures powerfully illustrates the significant gender inequality prevalent in STEM fields during the Space Race era; The women at Langley faced skepticism and were often overlooked, their contributions minimized or attributed to their male colleagues. They were frequently relegated to support roles, despite possessing exceptional mathematical and analytical skills.
The film demonstrates how societal expectations limited women’s access to advanced education and leadership positions. Katherine, Dorothy, and Mary had to consistently overcome assumptions about their abilities and fight for recognition in a male-dominated environment, proving their worth through dedication and brilliance.
Overcoming Institutional Obstacles
Hidden Figures showcases the remarkable resilience of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson as they navigated deeply entrenched institutional obstacles. These women confronted segregation, limited access to resources, and systemic biases within NASA and the broader American society. Dorothy’s self-teaching of FORTRAN to prepare for the IBM computer’s arrival exemplifies proactive adaptation.
Mary’s fight to attend night classes at an all-white school, and Katherine’s persistent pursuit of inclusion in crucial meetings, highlight their determination. They strategically utilized their skills and intellect to challenge the status quo, ultimately dismantling barriers and paving the way for future generations.
Detailed Scene Analysis & Answers
This section offers in-depth explorations of key scenes from Hidden Figures, providing comprehensive answers to guide understanding and critical thinking about the film’s narrative.
The Early Scenes: Establishing the Setting
Hidden Figures powerfully establishes its setting in the racially segregated early 1960s. Initial scenes vividly depict the daily realities faced by Katherine, Dorothy, and Mary – showcasing both their exceptional intellect and the systemic discrimination they endure.
The opening sequences contrast their professional capabilities with the overt segregation of facilities at Langley Research Center, highlighting the “colored computers” section. These early moments are crucial for understanding the obstacles these women overcame. The film meticulously portrays the societal norms and legal restrictions of the time, setting the stage for their remarkable achievements against all odds.
Katherine’s Integration into the Space Task Group
Hidden Figures dramatically portrays Katherine Johnson’s pivotal integration into the all-white, male Space Task Group. Initially met with resistance and blatant prejudice, Katherine’s exceptional mathematical skills quickly become indispensable to the team’s success with Project Mercury.
The film highlights her persistent need to fight for recognition and access – including repeatedly requesting to be included in crucial editorial meetings. This integration isn’t seamless; it’s a constant negotiation for respect and professional equality. Katherine’s contributions to calculating trajectories are shown as vital, demonstrating her brilliance and challenging existing biases.
Dorothy’s Fight for Recognition and Advancement
Hidden Figures powerfully depicts Dorothy Vaughan’s proactive struggle for professional recognition and advancement within a segregated NASA. Recognizing the impending shift to IBM computers, Dorothy self-taught FORTRAN programming, becoming Langley’s first African-American supervisor.
Her foresight and dedication allowed her and her team to remain valuable assets, avoiding displacement. The film showcases her relentless advocacy for her colleagues, securing promotions and better working conditions. Dorothy’s story exemplifies leadership and adaptability in the face of systemic discrimination, demonstrating her commitment to empowering others and breaking down barriers.
Mary’s Pursuit of Engineering Education
Hidden Figures highlights Mary Jackson’s determined pursuit of an engineering degree, a significant challenge for an African-American woman in the 1950s. Facing segregation, she petitioned the court to attend night classes at the all-white Hampton High School, requiring a separate petition for each course;
Her perseverance embodies a courageous fight against institutional barriers. Mary’s ambition wasn’t simply personal; it was about paving the way for future generations of Black engineers. The film illustrates her intellectual brilliance and unwavering commitment to her career aspirations, ultimately becoming NASA’s first Black female engineer.
Themes and Symbolism
Hidden Figures powerfully explores themes of perseverance, education’s transformative power, and challenging societal norms. Symbolism emphasizes breaking barriers and achieving dreams despite adversity.
The Power of Perseverance
Hidden Figures vividly demonstrates the unwavering perseverance of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson. Facing systemic racism and gender discrimination, they relentlessly pursued their goals at NASA. Their dedication to accurate calculations and professional advancement, despite constant obstacles, highlights their inner strength.
The film showcases how these women refused to be defined by societal limitations, consistently exceeding expectations. Their commitment to excellence, even when undervalued or overlooked, ultimately contributed significantly to the success of the Space Race. This theme resonates deeply, inspiring viewers to overcome challenges.
The Importance of Education
Hidden Figures powerfully underscores the transformative power of education, particularly for marginalized communities. The women’s exceptional mathematical skills, honed through dedicated study, were crucial to NASA’s success. Dorothy Vaughan’s proactive learning of FORTRAN programming demonstrates a commitment to continuous self-improvement and adaptation.
Mary Jackson’s pursuit of engineering courses, despite legal barriers, exemplifies the lengths to which she went to achieve her professional aspirations. The film highlights how access to quality education empowers individuals to break down barriers and contribute meaningfully to society, challenging preconceived notions and fostering innovation.
Challenging Societal Norms
Hidden Figures vividly portrays the courageous challenge to deeply ingrained societal norms of the 1960s. The film showcases how Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson defied racial and gender expectations within a segregated America and a male-dominated STEM field. Their persistence in the face of discrimination directly confronted systemic inequalities.
By excelling in their roles at NASA, these women dismantled prejudiced assumptions about the capabilities of African-Americans and women. Their success served as a powerful catalyst for change, subtly yet significantly shifting perceptions and paving the way for future generations to pursue their dreams without limitation.
Technical Aspects & Accuracy
The film strives for accuracy in depicting NASA’s computing practices and mathematical calculations, though some dramatization occurred. The introduction of IBM computers is also portrayed.
Accuracy of the Mathematical Calculations
Hidden Figures meticulously portrays the complex calculations performed by Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson. While dramatized for cinematic effect, the core mathematical principles remain accurate. The film highlights Johnson’s crucial role in verifying the trajectory calculations for John Glenn’s orbital mission, a feat achieved through rigorous analytical geometry.
Experts consulted during production confirmed the validity of the depicted calculations, ensuring a degree of authenticity. However, some simplification was necessary to convey the concepts to a broader audience. The movie successfully demonstrates the vital contribution of these “human computers” before the widespread adoption of electronic machines.
Representation of NASA’s Computing Practices
Hidden Figures accurately depicts the transition within NASA’s computing division. Initially, the film showcases the reliance on human “computers,” primarily African-American women, performing complex calculations manually. These women were essential for analyzing flight trajectories, aerodynamic data, and other critical mission parameters.
The movie realistically portrays the gradual introduction of IBM mainframe computers, and the initial skepticism and subsequent adaptation by the computing staff. Dorothy Vaughan’s foresight in learning FORTRAN programming demonstrates the proactive approach taken to remain relevant amidst technological advancements. The film highlights the collaborative relationship between human and machine computation.
The Role of IBM Computers
Hidden Figures illustrates the pivotal shift at NASA with the arrival of IBM computers, specifically the IBM 7094. While initially perceived as a threat to the human computers’ jobs, the film accurately shows these machines weren’t immediately capable of replacing the skilled mathematicians.
The computers required extensive programming and verification, tasks the women of Langley excelled at. Dorothy Vaughan’s proactive learning of FORTRAN allowed her and her team to transition into programming roles, demonstrating adaptability. The movie highlights the computers’ speed, but also their dependence on accurate input and programming – areas where human expertise remained crucial.
Impact and Legacy
Hidden Figures garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards, inspiring a renewed focus on diversity in STEM fields and celebrating overlooked contributions.
The Film’s Reception and Awards
Hidden Figures received widespread critical acclaim upon its release in December 2016, resonating deeply with audiences globally. Critics lauded the film’s inspiring narrative, powerful performances, and its shedding light on a previously untold story of American history. The film boasts a 92% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with a consensus praising its celebratory and empowering message.
Hidden Figures earned numerous accolades, including nominations for three Academy Awards: Best Picture, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Supporting Actress for Octavia Spencer, who ultimately won the award. It also received a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress (Spencer) and several nominations from the Screen Actors Guild and the British Academy Film Awards, solidifying its place as a culturally significant and critically successful film.
Inspiring Future Generations in STEM
Hidden Figures has demonstrably inspired a new wave of interest in STEM fields, particularly among underrepresented groups. The film’s portrayal of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson serves as a powerful example of overcoming barriers and achieving excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Educational initiatives have incorporated the film into curricula to encourage students to pursue STEM careers, highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusion. The movie sparked conversations about equity and access, motivating organizations to create more opportunities for women and people of color in these vital fields, fostering a more inclusive future for innovation.
Continuing the Fight for Equality
While Hidden Figures celebrates progress, it also underscores that the fight for full equality in STEM remains ongoing. Despite advancements, women and minorities continue to be underrepresented in these fields, facing systemic biases and challenges in career advancement.
The film serves as a reminder of the need for continued advocacy for inclusive policies, mentorship programs, and equitable access to education and resources. Addressing these disparities is crucial for unlocking the full potential of a diverse workforce and fostering innovation. The legacy of the “Hidden Figures” demands sustained commitment to creating a truly equitable STEM landscape.
Supplemental Materials & Resources
Hidden Figures offers rich learning opportunities! Explore further reading, documentaries, and educational resources to deepen understanding of this inspiring story and its context.
Further Reading on the “Hidden Figures”
Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly is the foundational text. It meticulously details the lives and contributions of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, expanding beyond the film’s narrative.
Additionally, explore articles from NASA’s history office, providing primary source documentation and deeper insights into the agency’s computing practices during the Space Race. Websites dedicated to African-American history and women in STEM also offer valuable context and related biographies. These resources illuminate the broader societal challenges and triumphs experienced by these remarkable women.
Documentaries and Related Films
Spacewalking: The Dawn of the Space Age (2018) offers a broader historical context of the early space program, showcasing the diverse teams involved, though not focusing specifically on the “Hidden Figures.” Consider Race to Space (2005), a documentary series detailing the US-Soviet space competition, providing background on the pressures faced by NASA;
For related narratives, explore documentaries highlighting the contributions of other underrepresented groups in STEM fields. Films like Picture a Scientist (2020) address ongoing gender inequality in science. These resources complement Hidden Figures by illustrating the systemic barriers and persistent challenges faced by marginalized communities pursuing scientific careers.
Educational Resources for Teachers
NASA offers extensive educational materials on its website, including lesson plans related to the Space Race and the contributions of women in STEM. The National Museum of African American History and Culture provides resources on the historical context of segregation and discrimination faced by the women in Hidden Figures.
Consider utilizing online interactive timelines and virtual tours of Langley Research Center. Scholastic provides study guides specifically designed for the film, fostering classroom discussions about perseverance, equality, and the importance of STEM education. Encourage students to research the real-life figures and their lasting impact.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Hidden Figures’ accuracy is debated; some events were dramatized for narrative effect. Explore resources for clarification and deeper historical understanding of the film.
Common Misconceptions About the Film
A frequent misunderstanding surrounds the extent of dramatization within Hidden Figures. While rooted in true events, the film compresses timelines and combines characters for narrative flow. Some portrayals of IBM’s early computing role are also simplified; the initial computers weren’t immediately replacing human “computers.”
Additionally, the film suggests Katherine Johnson single-handedly verified the calculations for John Glenn’s orbital mission, which isn’t entirely accurate. She was part of a team. Finally, the level of overt hostility faced by the women, while reflective of the era, is sometimes amplified for dramatic impact, though the systemic discrimination was very real.
Clarification of Historical Events
The Space Race, depicted in Hidden Figures, was fueled by Cold War tensions between the US and the Soviet Union. Sputnik’s launch in 1957 spurred American investment in science and technology. Langley Research Center was indeed crucial, but its integration was gradual and fraught with challenges.
Dorothy Vaughan’s transition to programming wasn’t instantaneous; she proactively learned FORTRAN to prepare for the shift. Mary Jackson’s fight for education involved overcoming legal hurdles to attend night classes. The film accurately portrays the segregated facilities, but the full complexity of the era’s social climate is nuanced.
Where to Find Additional Information
For deeper exploration, Margot Lee Shetterly’s book, “Hidden Figures,” provides extensive research and detail beyond the film’s narrative. NASA’s official history website (nasa.gov/history) offers primary source documents and articles about the Space Race and Langley’s contributions.
Documentaries like “Spacewalkers” and “Apollo 13” offer context regarding the era’s challenges. Educational resources for teachers are available through NASA’s STEM Engagement program and various museum websites. Microsoft’s website (microsoft.com) showcases their technological advancements relevant to NASA’s computing needs during that period.