4. Hedy Lamarr: Inventor of Frequency Hopping
Hedy Lamarr was more than a silver screen star—she co-invented frequency-hopping spread spectrum technology during World War II. While her Hollywood fame overshadowed her scientific pursuits, Lamarr’s invention became a foundation for modern wireless communication, enabling today’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth networks. Her dual legacy as both actress and innovator reveals the surprising ways creativity crosses boundaries, and how her groundbreaking idea continues to shape the devices we use every day. Smithsonian coverage
