[16] Charles babbage (1792–1871)

Although he was a 19^th century mathematician, is credited with inventing the modern computer. He also designed a type of speedometer and the cowcatcher* (a frame on the front of a locomotive that tosses obstacles off the railroad tracks).

Charles Babbage was born on Dec. 26, 1792, in Teignmouth, Devon, England. At age 19 he helped found the Analytical Society, whose purpose was to introduce developments from Europe into English mathematics. At about the same time Babbage first got his idea for mechanically calculating mathematical tables. Later he made a small calculator that could perform certain mathematical computations. In 1816 he was elected a Fellow** of the Royal Society of London, the oldest scientific society in Great Britain. Then, in 1823, he received government support for the design of a projected calculator with a 20-decimal capacity. While he was developing this machine he also served (1828–39) as a professor of mathematics at the University of Cambridge.

In the mid-1830s Babbage invented the principle of the analytical engine, the forerunner of the modern electronic computer. The government refused Babbage further support, however, and the device was never completed. A calculator based on his ideas was made in 1855 by a Swedish firm, but the computer was not developed until the electronic age.

Babbage published papers on mathematics, statistics, physics, and geology. He also assisted in establishing England's modern postal system. Babbage died in London on ct. 18, 1871.

Notes: *cowcatcher – предохранительная решётка

**fellow – член научного общество