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Great Unsung Women of Computing: The Computers (Part 1)

19 minutes 59 seconds

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The video "Great Unsung Women of Computing: The Computers (Part 1)" is a fascinating exploration into the history of computing, focusing on the overlooked contributions of six remarkable women mathematicians. In 1946, these pioneering figures programmed ENIAC, the world's first electronic computer. This project, led by John Mauchly and J. Presper Eckert, aimed to solve complex military calculations during World War II. Facing exclusion from viewing the machine directly due to security clearance, the women relied on wiring diagrams to innovate programming techniques. Their efforts laid the groundwork for modern computer science, highlighting the intersection of women in technology, computing history, and the evolution of programming. Despite their groundbreaking achievements, these women's contributions remained unrecognized for decades. This video serves not only as an educational resource on World War II and computing but also as an inspiring narrative of perseverance and innovation in science and technology.

Media Details

Runtime: 19 minutes 59 seconds

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Senior woman faces camera and looks slightly down as if participating in a recorded interview. Title card identifies her as Marlyn Wescoff Meltzer, Interviewed in 1997. Caption. You know how to run an adding machine.
Great Unsung Women of Computing
Episode 1
19 minutes 59 seconds
Grade Level: 7 - 12
Woman speaks to camera, gesturing out with 1 hand. Caption. As far back as I can remember.
Great Unsung Women of Computing
Episode 2
17 minutes 18 seconds
Grade Level: 7 - 12
Woman faces camera with an alert expression. Title card identifies her as Andrea Colaco, M, I, T Computer Science P, H, D, 2014. Caption. To get what we want.
Great Unsung Women of Computing
Episode 3
11 minutes 13 seconds
Grade Level: 7 - 12