The early days of the computer were an important period in human history, marked by cutting-edge invention and visionary thought. From the earliest days of mechanical calculators to the introduction of electronic computers, this period created the foundations for the digital revolution that would transform the modern world. Join us as we journey back in time to discover the fascinating beginnings of the computer, where imaginative individuals and cutting-edge technology came together to change the course of history forever.
Charles Babbage stands out among the brilliant minds who helped to invent the computer. According to Wikipedia Babbage was born on 26 December 1791. Moreover, he's a British mathematician, philosopher, and mechanical engineer, who has become known as the "Father of the computer" because of his brilliant concepts and remarkable works of art. Babbage invented the Difference Engine, a mechanical device for computing polynomial functions, in the early 19th century. His succeeding work on the Analytical Engine provided the foundation for modern computing, including notions like conditional branching and looping. Although Babbage's dreams were never fully realized during his lifetime, his inventive ideas and the constant pursuit of technical improvement laid the foundation for the digital age that followed.
According to Wikipedia, his father, Benjamin Herschel Babbage, was a banking partner of the Paredes and operated a sugar, coffee, and cocoa estate in Jamaica as well as an estate in Teignmouth and his mother was Betsy Plumleigh Babbage. Charles' father was also a brilliant and versatile scientist who homeschooled his son till the age of 12. Babbage's early exposure to education, combined with his father's influence, started his interest in mathematics and engineering, setting the way for his revolutionary contributions to computing later in life.
However, this humble man; Charles Babbage is one of my role models. That's because he is well educated, Not only because he's educated but also because of his pioneering spirit and innovative contributions to computing. Despite difficulties and setbacks, he continued in his pursuit of technical improvement, producing an eternal legacy that remains to affect our digital world today. He had many reasons to give up but he didn't. Just like he always said "Numbers are the masters of the weak, but the slaves of the strong" we all should stand against the difficulties which come to our mortal life.
Source: Wikipedia, Grade 10 ICT Text book and some other useful sources.