Computer: A History of the Information Machine

This book provides a comprehensive history of computers,from their early development to their current dominance,and covers topics such as globalization,platformization,and regulation. It is suitable for students of history,science,technology,and world history,and covers the social and cultural aspects of computing as well as their technical and business aspects.

Format: Hardback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 19 June 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive volume offers a thorough account of the evolution of computers,spanning from their early beginnings to the present-day era characterized by their widespread presence. In addition to providing a historical narrative,the book includes new chapters that delve into the realms of globalization,platformization,and regulation,thus enabling readers to engage with the recent surge of computers in a historical context.

The subject of computers has captured the attention of numerous students,making it a valuable topic for courses in history of science and technology,world history,and computing. While books on the history of computing often focus on technical or business aspects,this volume encompasses the social and cultural dimensions as well.

The history of computers is a fascinating journey that spans several decades,from the early development of mechanical calculators to the emergence of electronic computers. The invention of the transistor in the mid-20th century marked a significant milestone,leading to the rapid growth of the computer industry and the widespread adoption of computers in various fields.

In the early days,computers were primarily used for scientific and military purposes. The ENIAC,one of the earliest electronic computers,was built in the 1940s and was used for tasks such as calculating artillery firing tables and weather patterns. The Cold War also played a significant role in the development of computers,as both the United States and the Soviet Union invested heavily in research and development to gain an advantage in the arms race.

The 1960s and 1970s saw the emergence of personal computers,which revolutionized the way people interacted with computers. The Apple II,released in 1977,was one of the first successful personal computers and paved the way for the widespread adoption of home computing. The internet also began to gain popularity during this time,with the first email sent in 1971 and the first website published in 1991.

The 1980s and 1990s were characterized by the rapid growth of the computer industry and the widespread adoption of computers in businesses and households. The invention of the World Wide Web in 1991 by Tim Berners-Lee marked a significant milestone,making information accessible to anyone with an internet connection. The {URL} boom of the late 1990s and early 2000s saw the rise of many new technology companies,but it also led to a significant crash in the stock market.

The 21st century has seen the continued growth of computers and the emergence of new technologies such as cloud computing,big data,and artificial intelligence. Computers have become an integral part of our daily lives,used for a wide range of purposes such as communication, entertainment,work,and education.

In conclusion,this comprehensive volume provides a rich and detailed history of the evolution of computers,from their early beginnings to the present-day era characterized by their widespread presence. It offers valuable insights into the social,cultural,and technological factors that have shaped the development of computers and their impact on society. Whether you are a student,researcher,or simply interested in the history of technology,this book is a must-read.

Weight: 890g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032203478
Edition number: 4 ed