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Sophie Germain

Overview

The woman who fought a war with numbers.

Missing Image
(Portrait)

What is it?

French mathematician who taught herself from her father's books. She used the male pseudonym 'M. Le Blanc' to correspond with top professors.

History

1776-1831. Her work on elasticity helped build the Eiffel Tower—her name is actually inscribed on it!

Key Idea

Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.