Rosalind Franklin was a British molecular biologist whose key contributions were crucial in elucidating the structure of DNA. Despite her significant role in this groundbreaking discovery, she faced substantial gender discrimination from her male peers, which often overshadowed her achievements and contributions to the field.

Bill Bryson's book, "A Short History of Nearly Everything," highlights Franklin's struggle against the prevalent chauvinism of her time. Her determination and intellect were vital in advancing scientific knowledge, yet she remained underappreciated during her career, illustrating the challenges women faced in the sciences. The acknowledgment of her work is essential for a more complete understanding of the history of DNA research.