Early Computing: Crash Course Computer Science #1

Carrie Anne Philbin introduces the origins of computing, from ancient tools like the abacus to mechanical calculators and tabulating machines.

Hello, world! Welcome to Crash Course Computer Science! So today, we’re going to take a look at computing’s origins, because even though our digital computers are relatively new, the need for computation is not. Since the start of civilization itself, humans have had an increasing need for special devices to help manage laborious tasks, and as the scale of society continued to grow, these computational devices began to play a crucial role in amplifying our mental abilities. From the abacus and astrolabe to the difference engine and tabulating machine, we’ve come a long way to satisfying this increasing need, and in the process completely transformed commerce, government, and daily life. Produced in collaboration with PBS Digital Studios: youtube.com/pbsdigitalstudios Want to know more about Carrie Anne? about.me/carrieannephilbin Want more Crash Course in person? We'll be at NerdCon: Nerdfighteria in Boston on February 25th and 26th! For more information, go to nerdconnerdfighteria.com/ The Latest from PBS Digital Studios: youtube.com/playlist?list... Want to find Crash Course elsewhere on the internet? Facebook - facebook.com/YouTubeCrashC... Twitter - twitter.com/TheCrashCourse Tumblr - thecrashcourse.tumblr.com Support Crash Course on Patreon: patreon.com/crashcourse CC Kids: youtube.com/crashcoursekids