The history of mathematics is dotted by names like Albert Einstein, Euclid, and Carl Friedrich Gauss, men of genius. But many women-though not as well-known by history-aided in the development of mathematics. Emilie de Breteuil, Maria Gaetana Agnesi, Mary Somerville, Ada Byron Lovelace, Sonya Kovalevsky, and Emmy Noether faced unique challenges on their way to success. All were born at times when women were expected to get only a minimal education. Furthermore, even when their passion prevailed and they were able to attain the knowledge they sought, they were often unable to find careers in their chosen field, blocked by men and the prejudices of their time. Still, they worked tirelessly, to learn more and to get the respect of their male peers. With time and determination they succeeded, creating works that influenced people's thinking about mathematics and the universe; in doing so, they not only achieved their own goals, but helped to forge the modern world. Book jacket.