#analytical machine

[silentambassadors]

Rest in peace, Charles Babbage.  While he was an all around polymath of a guy (founding such varied organizations as the Analytical Society and the Astronomical Society), Babbage is best known these days as the father of the computer--he was the first to invent a theoretical digital programmable computer (his “analytical engine”) [Konrad Zuse actuated the first programmable computer--Babbage’s was only theoretical].  [Fellow stamp enthusiasts: he also took an interest in matters postal and after he took it into his head to investigate, concluded that the post should be governed by a uniform postal rate--what eventually came to be Rowland Hill’s pennypost.]  [Along with Tesla, Babbage is a rather popular figure in steampunk works.]  He died on this date in 1871 at the age of 79.

Stamp details: Stamp on left: Issued on: March 5, 1991 From: London, England MC #1321

Stamp on right: Issued on: February 25, 2010 From: London, England MC #2892

[curiosamathematica]

Lovelace & Babbage

Ada Lovelace is widely credited as the first computer scientist and Charles Babbage is best remembered for originating the concept of a programmable computer. Together they collaborated on Babbage's early mechanical general-purpose computer, the Analytical Engine. Whilst never fully built in their lifetime, Lovelace's notes on the engine include what is recognised as the first algorithm intended to be carried out by a machine. Because of this, she is often regarded as the first computer programmer.

Over 8000 people have already supported the campaign to create an official LEGO© set on Lovelace and Babbage, very close to the 10000 supporters needed for this proposal to go through. Registering and supporting is free and trivial.

There are also other nice mathematical LEGO© projects which can use your support, such as a truncated icosahedron or Alan Turing’s Enigma machine.