Women Who Launched The Computer Age: How They Revolutionized Technology

In the male-dominated world of technology, it is often overlooked that women played a vital role in shaping the computer age as we know it today. From the early days of programming to the development of groundbreaking software, these women defied societal norms and broke barriers to make their mark on the technological landscape.

The Forgotten Innovators

One of the pioneers in computer programming was Ada Lovelace, often referred to as the "world's first programmer." In the 19th century, Lovelace created the first algorithm designed to be carried out by a machine, an idea that laid the foundation for modern computer programming.

Another unsung hero is Grace Hopper, a computer scientist and United States Navy rear admiral. Hopper was instrumental in the development of the first operational compiler, which translated high-level programming languages into machine code. Her work on the COBOL programming language revolutionized the field and paved the way for modern software engineering.

Women Who Launched the Computer Age

by Laurie Calkhoven (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	12296 KB
Print length	:	48 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Breaking Barriers: Women in Computing

In the mid-20th century, as computers became more prevalent, women stood at the forefront of their programming and operation. This period, often referred to as the "Computer Girls" era, saw immense contributions by women to the development of early computing systems.

One such pioneer was Kathleen Antonelli, a mathematician who played a pivotal role in the creation of the first electronic digital computer. Antonelli's work at the University of Pennsylvania alongside other female programmers helped shape the future of computing.

Similarly, Jean Bartik, one of the first programmers of the ENIAC computer, worked relentlessly to program the machine and unleash its full potential. Despite facing skepticism and discrimination, Bartik's dedication and expertise elevated her to become a trailblazer in the field of computer programming.

The Software Revolution: Trailblazing Women

As the computer industry advanced, so did its software capabilities. Several women in this period played a fundamental role in developing groundbreaking software and applications that would revolutionize the technology landscape.

One such visionary was Ada Lovelace's work was revived and expanded upon by women like Adele Goldberg, who co-developed the influential Smalltalk programming language. Goldberg's contributions to object-oriented programming are widely recognized and continue to impact modern software development practices.

Frances Allen, a distinguished computer scientist, broke new ground by revolutionizing compiler optimization techniques. Her work not only improved the performance of computer programs but also helped establish the foundation for parallel computing, a key component of modern computing systems.

Challenges and Triumphs

Throughout history, these extraordinary women faced numerous challenges, from battling gender bias to being underestimated and overshadowed by their male counterparts. Despite these obstacles, their determination, intelligence, and passion for technology propelled them forward.

Their significant contributions have only recently begun to receive the recognition they deserve. Initiatives such as the Anita Borg Institute and the Grace Hopper Celebration aim to celebrate and support women in technology, ensuring that their contributions are acknowledged and celebrated.

It is essential to acknowledge and celebrate the women who played a pivotal role in launching the computer age. From Ada Lovelace's pioneering work to the perseverance of women like Grace Hopper and Jean Bartik, their contributions have shaped the world of technology we live in today.

As we move forward, it is crucial to continue promoting diversity and inclusivity in the tech industry, providing opportunities for all aspiring individuals, regardless of their gender. By recognizing the achievements of these trailblazing women, we can inspire future generations to follow in their footsteps and create an even more inclusive and innovative computer age.

Women Who Launched the Computer Age

by Laurie Calkhoven (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	12296 KB
Print length	:	48 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

This book was chosen by the Children’s Book Council as a best STEM book of 2017!

Meet the women who programmed the first all-electronic computer and built the technological language kids today can’t live without in this fascinating, nonfiction Level 3 Ready-to-Read, part of a new series of biographies about people “you should meet!”

In 1946, six brilliant young women programmed the first all-electronic, programmable computer, the ENIAC, part of a secret World War II project. They learned to program without any programming languages or tools, and by the time they were finished, the ENIAC could run a complicated calculus equation in seconds. But when the ENIAC was presented to the press and public, the women were never introduced or given credit for their work. Learn all about what they did and how their invention still matters today in this story of six amazing young women everyone should meet!

A special section at the back of the book includes extras on subjects like history and math, plus interesting trivia facts about how computers have changed over time. With the You Should Meet series, learning about historical figures has never been so much fun!