Grace Hopper’s computer compiler broke more than one barrier: A language barrier between computers and their programmers, and a gender barrier; she was a female pioneer in computer sciences in the 1950s, as well
as a Rear Admiral in the Navy. The compiler allowed unskilled programmers to code computers, thus creating opportunities for the technological innovations we have today. Hopper’s successes led the way for the internet, games on our phones,
and even this website.
"From cell phone to [U.S.] Cyber Command, we can thank Grace Hopper for opening programming to millions more people, helping to usher in the information age and profoundly shaping our digital world.”
- Barack Obama
Grace Hopper's grave stone in Arlington, Virginia. Photo taken by Amy Genz.