The Top Shelf
History of Programming: Babbage to Hopper (ft. Uncle Bob)
Feb 11, 2025
Uncle Bob, a renowned software developer and author of "We Programmers," dives deep into the colorful history of programming. He discusses pioneers like Charles Babbage and Ada Lovelace, illuminating their revolutionary contributions and the origins of the term 'computer.' The conversation highlights the era's societal challenges while emphasizing Lovelace's unique legacy. Uncle Bob also shares insights on programming evolution, urging new developers to embrace continuous learning and explore beyond narrow fields, recollecting the thrill of tech discovery.
01:26:40
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Quick takeaways
- The early pioneers of computing, like Charles Babbage and Ada Lovelace, laid the foundational concepts that significantly influenced modern programming.
- Uncle Bob stresses the necessity for programmers to understand their historical roots to fully appreciate the technological evolution over time.
Deep dives
The Roots of Computing History
The discussion highlights the significance of understanding the early pioneers of computing, such as Charles Babbage and Ada Lovelace. Uncle Bob emphasizes the importance of programmers knowing their history to appreciate the evolution of technology. He believes that many existing books about computing history lack the technical depth and details that programmers crave. By documenting the journeys of these historical figures, the aim is to create an engaging narrative that resonates with modern developers.
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