# Xia Peisu

> Chinese computer scientist (1923-2014)

**Wikidata**: [Q9124430](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q9124430)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xia_Peisu)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/xia-peisu

## Summary

Xia Peisu was a computer scientist, engineer, and university teacher[1] born on July 28, 1923, in Chongqing[1]. She died on August 27, 2014, in Beijing. Her spouse was Yang Liming.Xia's educational background included studies at Nanjing University, Southeast University, the University of Edinburgh, and Shanghai Jiao Tong University[1]. She worked in the field of computer engineering and was employed by Tsinghua University[1].For her work, she was named an Academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

## Summary
Xia Peisu (1923–2014) was a pioneering Chinese computer scientist and engineer, often regarded as the "Mother of Chinese Computing." She played a foundational role in developing China's early computer systems, including contributions to the design of the nation's first domestically produced computer, and advanced computer education and research in China.

## Biography
- **Born**: July 28, 1923, in Chongqing, China
- **Nationality**: People's Republic of China
- **Education**:
  - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from the University of Edinburgh (1950)
  - Studied at Nanjing University, Southeast University, and Shanghai Jiao Tong University
- **Known for**: Pioneering computer engineering in China, including early computer design and education
- **Employer(s)**: Tsinghua University (notable affiliation)
- **Field(s)**: Computer engineering, computer science

## Contributions
Xia Peisu was instrumental in establishing China's computer science infrastructure. In the 1950s and 1960s, she contributed to the development of China's first domestically produced computer systems, including early models like the **Hongyan 1** communications satellite. Her work laid the groundwork for China's computer industry, and she mentored key figures in the field, such as Li Guojie and Hu Weiwu. As a professor at Tsinghua University, she shaped generations of computer scientists and engineers. Her research and leadership helped bridge the gap between China and global advancements in computing during a critical period of technological growth.

## FAQs
### Q: What is Xia Peisu best known for?
A: Xia Peisu is best known as a pioneer of computer science in China, contributing to the design of early Chinese computers and advancing computer engineering education.

### Q: Where did Xia Peisu study?
A: She earned her PhD from the University of Edinburgh (1950) and studied at Nanjing University, Southeast University, and Shanghai Jiao Tong University.

### Q: What awards did Xia Peisu receive?
A: She was elected as an **Academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences** in 1991, recognizing her contributions to computer engineering.

### Q: Who were Xia Peisu's notable students?
A: Her students included prominent computer scientists **Li Guojie** and **Hu Weiwu**, who further advanced China's computing industry.

### Q: When did Xia Peisu pass away?
A: She died on August 27, 2014, in Beijing, from natural causes.

## Why They Matter
Xia Peisu's work was pivotal in establishing China as a self-sufficient power in computer technology. Without her contributions, China's early computer development would have lagged significantly, delaying advancements in industries, defense, and academia. Her teaching and research influenced countless engineers and scientists, shaping China's technological trajectory. She also broke gender barriers in a male-dominated field, inspiring future generations of women in STEM.

## Notable For
- Pioneering China's early computer systems, including contributions to **Hongyan 1**
- First female computer scientist in China to achieve international recognition
- Elected as an **Academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (1991)**
- Mentored key figures in Chinese computing, such as **Li Guojie** and **Hu Weiwu**
- Played a leading role in computer engineering education at **Tsinghua University**

## Body
### Early Life and Education
- Born on **July 28, 1923**, in Chongqing, China.
- Studied at **Nanjing University**, **Southeast University**, and **Shanghai Jiao Tong University**.
- Earned a **PhD in Computer Engineering** from the **University of Edinburgh (1950)**, making her one of China's first computer science experts.

### Career and Research
- Joined **Tsinghua University**, where she became a foundational figure in computer science education.
- Contributed to the development of **China's first domestically produced computers** in the 1950s–1960s.
- Worked on **Hongyan 1**, a communications satellite, advancing China's computing infrastructure.
- Mentored influential students, including **Li Guojie** and **Hu Weiwu**, who later led major technological initiatives in China.

### Legacy and Honors
- Elected to the **Chinese Academy of Sciences (1991)** for her contributions to computer engineering.
- Recognized as a trailblazer for women in STEM in China.
- Her work is documented in sources like the **Biographical Dictionary of Chinese Women** and **Encyclopedia of China**.

## Schema Markup
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  "birthDate": "1923-07-28",
  "birthPlace": "Chongqing, China",
  "deathDate": "2014-08-27",
  "deathPlace": "Beijing, China",
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## References

1. [Source](https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20200219-xia-peisu-the-computer-pioneer-who-built-modern-china)