Alan Turing

Alan Turing is celebrated for his pivotal role in helping the Allies triumph in World War II by deciphering the German code, enabling the Allies to anticipate German strategies and effectively counter them. This invaluable contribution possibly shortened the war by two years. Despite his immense contributions, Turing’s homosexuality later became a point of contention.

In 1952, he faced arrest for ‘gross indecency’ and was given a heartbreaking choice between undergoing hormone therapy or imprisonment. He opted for the hormone treatments, which tragically diminished his physical and mental well-being. This contributed to his tragic suicide two years afterward. In a move towards atonement, the British government issued an informal apology in 2009. Further, in 2013, Queen Elizabeth II, who ascended the throne shortly before Turing’s death, posthumously pardoned him.