Mathematical women in the British Isles 1878–1940: using the Davis archive

Abstract

The Davis Historical Archive identifies the women who obtained an honours degree in mathematics in the British Isles between 1878 and 1940 and gives information on them. This note uses the Archive to pick out patterns in women's mathematical education in England and Wales, adding the necessary historical and institutional context. It pays special attention to the dominant institutions of the period, viz., the women's colleges in Cambridge and London. It also glances at the careers of the graduates.