A Look at the History of Computers and Software
From the earliest times man has looked for ways to make every day tasks easier. There was a time in history when all calculations and computations that people did were done by hand. It was a time consuming and difficult way to perform these tasks. Scientists and inventors of the day took up the task of finding ways to complete these tasks. One of the leaders of this challenge was Charles Babbage.
Charles Babbage was an English mathematician and inventor who was looking for an easier way to compute. In the early 19th Century, he created the idea of a programmable computer. His work with early computing machines earned him the nickname of "Father of the Computer". While his work was a far cry from our computers of today, it was an important first step in the coming technology that we now enjoy.
Over the years computers have evolved from primitive computing machines of Babbage to computers that needed to take up an entire room to perform simple tasks to today's computer power that can be contained in your phone. During the past couple of centuries, the computer has been transformed from a device that was used primarily by governments to a device that is available to everyone. Through improved computer technology people of all ages can use personal computers either through desktops, laptops, tablets and smart phones. Bringing everyone a world of information at your fingertips.
The history of computers and software is a fascinating journey with many important figures and events along the way. To learn more about the world of computers and technology here are some links of interest. We hope this helps you learn and appreciate the evolution of the world of computers.
First Computing Machines
- The Babbage Computing Engine – Informative page which looks at the life and work of Charles Babbage.
- Who Was Charles Babbage? - This article gives a historical look at the work of one of the early computer experts.
- Computing Machine History – A look at the evolution of computing machines from ancient times onward.
- The Historical Development of Computing Devices – Historical information and a look at some early calculating and computing devices.
- Computer Evolution – Useful article which looks at early machines used for computing.
Early Computers
- Early Computer Information – Helpful article which lists several of the earliest versions of computers.
- Essays on Early Computers – This page provides a look at various early computers from personal usage.
- From Tabulators to Early Computers – A look at how computers evolved in the business world.
- Early Computers of the 1960's – Useful page which looks at computers from the 1960's.
- Early History of Computing – Article which outlines the early history of computing and computers.
Early Home Computers
- Personal Computer Milestones – Listing of important dates and information for personal home computers.
- Early History of the Personal Computer – Informative and historical page with information on early personal computers.
- 1980's Computer History Timeline – A chronological page which outlines events in computer history in the 1980's.
- Designing the World's First Home Computers – Information on some of the most notable home computers.
- Impact of Home Computers on Children (PDF) – Interesting publication which outlines the changes in learning for children due to computers.
Pioneers of Computers
- Charles Babbage – A look at the life of the Father of the Computer.
- Hedy Lamarr - Actress and inventor who pioneered the technology that forms the basis for today’s WiFi, GPS, and Bluetooth communication systems.
- Ada Byron Lovelace – Information on the life of the Founder of Scientific Computing.
- Dr. George R. Stibitz – A guide to the papers of George Stibitz, the Father of Digital Computer.
- Steve Jobs – Biography of the founder of Apple Computers and his accomplishments in computer technology.
- Pioneers of Computers – Informative articles on the people and pioneers of the computer industry.
Computers and Software Today
- History of Modern Computers – Historical look at computers up until today.
- Who Built the First Modern Computer – Article which looks at the completion of the modern computer.
- Modern History of Computing – Information on the history of computers from the time of Babbage until today.
- Laptop History – This article gives a look at the history of the laptop computer.
- A Brief History of Smartphones – A useful article that looks at the origins and history of the smart phone
Resources
- Computer History Resources – This page from the Computer History Museum provides information and resources on computer history.
- Computer Science Resources – Resources and information on computers and computing.
- Computers and Computing Resources – Informative page from the Library of Congress which presents links about computers.
- History of Computing – Timeline of information on computing from George Mason University.
- Computing Resources – Informative web page from the University of Texas covering many aspects of computers.