Podcast
Questions and Answers
What job did Mary Winston Jackson accept after working as a clerk typist for the army?
What job did Mary Winston Jackson accept after working as a clerk typist for the army?
What was the significance of Mary's family's dedication to the Double V?
What was the significance of Mary's family's dedication to the Double V?
Why was the FBI interrogating Langley employees during Mary's time at NACA?
Why was the FBI interrogating Langley employees during Mary's time at NACA?
What led to the firing of a black computer at Langley?
What led to the firing of a black computer at Langley?
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What historical event was causing concern among Americans when Mary started working at NACA in April 1951?
What historical event was causing concern among Americans when Mary started working at NACA in April 1951?
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What year did Mary Jackson graduate from Hampton Institute?
What year did Mary Jackson graduate from Hampton Institute?
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Why did Mary Jackson initially return home after teaching high school in Maryland?
Why did Mary Jackson initially return home after teaching high school in Maryland?
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What event prompted Mary Jackson to consider rejoining the workforce by early 1951?
What event prompted Mary Jackson to consider rejoining the workforce by early 1951?
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What was President Truman pushing to eliminate in the civil service?
What was President Truman pushing to eliminate in the civil service?
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What group was Matilda West associated with before she was fired from Langley?
What group was Matilda West associated with before she was fired from Langley?
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Study Notes
Mary Winston Jackson's Career
- After her role as a clerk typist for the army, Mary Winston Jackson accepted a position as a mathematician at the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), which later became NASA.
Family's Commitment to the Double V
- Mary's family was dedicated to the Double V campaign, which symbolized victory against fascism abroad and racial discrimination at home during World War II, embodying their commitment to civil rights and social justice.
FBI Interrogation of Langley Employees
- During Mary's tenure at NACA, the FBI interrogated Langley employees due to concerns over potential espionage and security risks connected to the Cold War climate.
Firing of a Black Computer
- A Black female computer at Langley was fired due to alleged conflicts resulting from her insistence on being treated with dignity and respect, highlighting racial tensions in the workplace.
Historical Context in 1951
- When Mary began working at NACA in April 1951, concerns among Americans were heightened due to the onset of the Korean War and a growing fear of communism.
Graduation from Hampton Institute
- Mary Jackson graduated from Hampton Institute in 1942, earning her degree in mathematics and physical science which laid the groundwork for her career.
Return to Maryland
- After teaching high school in Maryland, Mary Jackson initially returned home due to her husband's serious illness, which necessitated her presence and support at home.
Decision to Rejoin the Workforce
- By early 1951, an event in the local community, specifically the need for skilled labor, prompted Mary Jackson to consider rejoining the workforce after her time away.
President Truman's Civil Service Initiatives
- President Truman was advocating for the elimination of racial discrimination in the federal civil service, supporting efforts towards civil rights advancements.
Matilda West's Association
- Matilda West was involved with the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) before her dismissal from Langley, reflecting the contentious atmosphere surrounding civil rights activism in the workplace.
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Description
Learn about the early life of Mary Jackson, including her education, teaching career, and marriage to Levi Jackson. Discover how she navigated challenges and made important life decisions.