The First Computer Programmer
The tale of Ada Lovelace
When we think about the development of technology, names like Thomas Edison, Alan Turing, and Steve Jobs spring to mind. But you’re probably less familiar with Ada Lovelace.
Back in the nineteenth century, she made a vital contribution to the history of computer technology. And as such, the world owes much to this brilliant young woman.
Child Genius
Ada was born on the 12th of December 1815 in Piccadilly, London. Her parents were members of the aristocracy, yet her upbringing wasn’t without complications.
Her father — a famous poet known as Lord Byron — had a reputation for drunken debauchery and scandalous behaviour. So, just one month after Ada was born, Lady Byron abandoned her husband. This separation received a lot of publicity because divorces were rare in those days.
What’s more, Lady Byron suffered from recurring health issues. Ada, therefore, spent much of her childhood with her grandparents at Kirkby Hall, a large, Elizabethan-style home in the village of Kirkby Mallory, Leicestershire.
