Oral History of Donald Knuth Part 1

Donald Knuth discusses his early life, his introduction to computing, the writing of The Art of Computer Programming, and the creation of TeX.

Interviewed by Edward Feigenbaum on 2007-03-14 in Mountain View, CA X3926.2007 © Computer History Museum In this wide-ranging interview conducted by Edward Feigenbaum, Donald Knuth talks about the progression of his life and career. Topics include his family background and early interest in music, physics and mathematics, his first exposure to programming, finding a mentor, and writing a doctoral thesis. He describes how "The Art of Computer Programming" became "the story of my life", and why it was put on hold for the TeX and METAFONT projects. He also talks about personal work habits, programming style, analysis of algorithms, the influence of religion in his life, and his advice to the next generation of scientists. * Note: Transcripts represent what was said in the interview. However, to enhance meaning or add clarification, interviewees have the opportunity to modify this text afterward. This may result in discrepancies between the transcript and the video. Please refer to the transcript for further information - computerhistory.org/collections/catalog/102658053 (The document contain the transcript of both sessions) Visit computerhistory.org/collections/oralhistories/ for more information about the Computer History Museum's Oral History Collection. Lot number: X3926.2007 Catalog number: 102658036