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12 views2 pages

Origem

Uploaded by

mukandinha
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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THE ORIGIN OF COMPUTER

The origin of computer science is a fascinating topic that encompasses various


disciplines, including mathematics, engineering, and computer science. Let's
explore this journey!

The word "computer science" derives from the French "informatique," created
in the 1960s to describe the automatic processing of information. However, the
roots of computer science date back much further, with the development of
concepts and devices that facilitated data processing.

1. **Prehistory of Computing**: The history of computer science begins with


simple counting tools, such as abacuses, used thousands of years ago. These
tools allowed humans to perform basic calculations and store information.

2. **17th Century – Calculating Machines**: In the 17th century, inventors


like Blaise Pascal and Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz developed the first
mechanical calculating machines. These machines were capable of performing
simple arithmetic operations and marked an important step toward the
automation of calculation.

3. **19th Century – Charles Babbage**: The British mathematician Charles


Babbage is often referred to as the "father of the computer." He designed the
Analytical Engine, a device that could be programmed to perform complex
calculations. Although it was never completed in his time, the Analytical
Engine contained many fundamental elements of modern computers.

4. **20th Century – Alan Turing**: During World War II, Alan Turing made
significant contributions to theoretical computing. He created the "Turing
machine," an abstract model that formalizes the concept of algorithms and
computation. Turing also played a crucial role in breaking Nazi codes,
demonstrating the practical application of computing.

5. **1940s and 1950s – First Computers**: The ENIAC (Electronic Numerical


Integrator and Computer), developed in the United States in the 1940s, is
considered one of the first electronic digital computers. It was enormous and
consumed a significant amount of power, but it highlighted the possibilities of
electronic computing.

6. **1960s and 1970s – Minicomputers and Microprocessors**: The


introduction of minicomputers made computing more accessible for businesses
and universities. Then, in the 1970s, microprocessors allowed for the
miniaturization of computers, leading to the development of the first PCs
(personal computers).
7. **1980s to Present – Digital Revolution**: The popularization of personal
computers in the 1980s transformed computer science into an integral part of
everyday life. The internet emerged as a global network, connecting millions of
people and changing how we share information.

From this point on, computer science continued to evolve rapidly with
advances in digital technologies, including artificial intelligence, big data, and
cloud computing.

In summary, the origin of computer science is a rich story that combines


technological innovation with basic human needs for calculation and
communication. This evolution continues to shape our ever-changing world.

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