Description
Documents mainly the professional life of F.N. David, although a
scattering of personal items is included. Personal papers include notes and drawings from
university course work, a high school autograph book, and some correspondence. Professional
papers include curriculum vitae, writings, speeches, correspondence, photographs, research
notes and calculations, lecture notes and background materials, and information regarding
her work with the British armed forces during World War II and the United States on security
issues after the war.
Background
F.N. (
Florence
Nightingale)
David was born on August 23, 1909 in Ivington, England. She
graduated from Bedford College for Women in 1931 with a degree in Mathematics. Her intention
was to become an actuary in the insurance business, but she found she could not be hired
because she was a woman. Frustrated, she sought out Karl Pearson at University College in
London and began graduate studies and work as his research assistant. While working on her
PhD she became an assistant lecturer in the Statistics Department at University College and
worked closely with Jerzy Neyman and Egon Pearson. Together they launched a new statistical
journal called Statistical Research Memoirs. Encouraged by
Neyman after Karl Pearson died, she completed her PhD in 1938.
Extent
Number of containers: 10 cartons and 1 oversize folder.
Linear feet: 12.5
Restrictions
Materials in these collections may be protected by the U.S. Copyright Law (Title 17,
U.S.C.). In addition, the reproduction of some materials may be restricted by terms of
University of California gift or purchase agreements, donor restrictions, privacy and
publicity rights, licensing and trademarks. Transmission or reproduction of materials
protected by copyright beyond that allowed by fair use requires the written permission of
the copyright owner. Responsibility for any use rests exclusively with the user.
Availability
Collection is open for research.