John Markoff – Psychedelics and Computers:

Talking about the introduction of the psychedelic awareness into our technology. And the fact that the spreading of LSD had a major impact on the creation of the modern computer system. Also showing the very first computer interface demonstration by Douglas Englebart, called "the mother of all demos".

Read…

Ada Lovelace – Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Augusta Ada King, Countess of Lovelace (10 December 1815 – 27 November 1852), born Augusta Ada Byron and now commonly known as Ada Lovelace, was an English mathematician and writer chiefly known for her work on Charles Babbage's early mechanical general-purpose computer, the Analytical Engine. Her notes on the engine include what is recognized as the first algorithm intended to be processed by a machine. Because of this, she is often considered the world's first computer programmer.

Read…

Charles Babbage – Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Charles Babbage, FRS (26 December 1791 – 18 October 1871[1]) was an English mathematician, philosopher, inventor and mechanical engineer who originated the concept of a programmable computer.[2] Considered a "father of the computer",[3] Babbage is credited with inventing the first mechanical computer that eventually led to more complex designs.[4]

Read…