TheCodeBreakers
Indeed, two more dissimilar men in a single field can scarcely be
imagined. Where Yardley was Rabelaisian, outgoing, superficial, free and
easy with the details of a good story, and ever ready for the main chance,
Friedman tended toward introversion, depth of study, personal security,
timidity, dedication, and accuracy, nicety, and validity of work. Despite
the relative drabness of these personal traits—or perhaps because of
them, Friedman's theoretical contributions and his practical attainments
exceed those of any other cryptologist. Yardley's career was like an
amazing skyrocket that explodes in fantastic patterns against the
heavens. Friedman's was like the sun.
He was born Wolfe Friedman on September 24, 1891, in Kishinev,
Russia, the oldest son and second child of Frederick and Rosa Friedman.
His father, a Rumanian who spoke eight languages and worked as an
interpreter for the Russian Post Office, emigrated to America in 1892, at
II
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