[(On the Principles and Development of the Calculator )] [Author: Charles Babbage] [Nov-2012]

by Charles Babbage

Regarded as a crackpot by his contemporaries and a genius by modern scientists, Charles Babbage (1792–1871) was the true discoverer of the principles on which all modern computing machines are based. His achievements have been virtually forgotten, but this compilation of his writings, in addition to those of several of his contemporaries, illuminates his pioneering work.Part I consists of selections from Babbage's long-out-of-print autobiography, Passages from the Life of a Philosopher, in which he recounts the pursuit of his dreams and remarks on noteworthy acquaintances, including Laplace, Biot, Humboldt, and Sir Humphry Davy. Additional features include articles, sketches, and letters by Babbage himself along with notes by his contemporaries that explain the principles and operation of the inventor's brilliant — but never completed — calculating machines. An informative Introduction places these writings in their historical context.

Genres: Nonfiction, Science, History

Paperback

First published November 21, 2012

About the author

British mathematician Charles Babbage invented an analytical machine, based on similar principles to those that modern computers use.

This English philosopher and mechanical engineer originated the concept of digital programming. Some persons consider Babbage a "father" and credit him with the first that eventually led to more complex electronic designs but find all essential ideas in his engine. His varied work in other fields led to his described "preeminence" of his century.

The science museum in London displays incomplete parts of Babbage. From original plans of Babbage, people in 1991 constructed a functioning difference engine. Built to achievable tolerances in the 19th century, the success of the finished engine indicated that Babbage worked.