41. Maryam Mirzakhani: The Math Whisperer

16/09/2025 45 min
41. Maryam Mirzakhani: The Math Whisperer

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Episode Synopsis

Maryam Mirzakhani: The Trailblazing MathematicianThis episode of 'She Changed History' delves into the life and legacy of Maryam Mirzakhani, an extraordinary Iranian mathematician and the first woman to win the basically the math olympics. Discussing her journey from a childhood during the Iran-Iraq war to her groundbreaking work in hyperbolic geometry, the episode highlights her resilience, optimism, and the critical support she received from teachers and peers. Maryam's remarkable achievements continue to inspire women in mathematics and science, leaving an enduring impact on the field.Sources today area1 https://mathshistory.st-andrews.ac.uk/Biographies/Mirzakhani/2 https://www.britannica.com/biography/Maryam-Mirzakhani3 https://www.theguardian.com/science/2014/aug/13/interview-maryam-mirzakhani-fields-medal-winner-mathematician4 https://www.quantamagazine.org/years-after-the-early-death-of-a-math-genius-her-ideas-gain-new-life-20250303/5 https://www.theguardian.com/science/2017/jul/19/maryam-mirzakhani-obituary6https://www.forbes.com/sites/startswithabang/2017/08/01/maryam-mirzakhani-a-candle-illuminating-the-dark/7 https://www.cantorsparadise.com/maryam-mirzakhani-humble-till-the-end-856961ffd9468 https://mariyamraza.medium.com/understanding-labor-of-love-through-the-life-of-maryam-mirzakhani-a76e40f91ad59 https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-2873937300:00 Introduction and Algorithm Woes00:26 Henry Cavill and Chivalry01:47 Weekend Vibes and Math Talk02:38 Introducing Maryam Mirzakhani03:43 Early Life in Iran05:29 Educational Journey and Challenges11:46 Mathematical Olympiad Success17:32 University Years and Research20:37 Tragedy and Resilience21:33 A Passion for Mathematics21:42 Harvard and the Fields Medal24:22 Understanding Hyperbolic Geometry27:52 Maryam's Academic Journey33:32 Breaking Barriers in Mathematics38:57 Legacy and Final Years