The History of Computing: From Ancient Mechanisms to Modern Computers

Explore the fascinating origins of computing in this 47-minute lecture that connects an ancient shipwreck to the textile mills of Northern England, revealing the surprising forerunners of modern computing technology. Journey through the historical evolution of processing, prediction, and analytical engines, starting with the remarkable Antikythera Mechanism and progressing through the contributions of pioneering figures like Mary Edwards, James Holmes, Charles Babbage, and Ada Lovelace. Learn how military research and manufacturing programs shaped the development of computer languages and software, with special attention to the emergence of Fortran. Delivered by Victoria Baines, IT Livery Company Professor of Information Technology and Senior Research Associate at Jesus College Cambridge, at Barnard's Inn Hall in London, this comprehensive exploration illuminates the rich history behind the computing devices we use today.