Charles Babbage, the 19th century British mathematician, philosopher, and engineer, has been called the “father of computing” for the powerful calculating machine he devised in the 1830s: the Babbage Analytical Engine. Babbage never built it, but now a team of British researchers at the Science Museum in London are combing through his blueprints to see if they can – and to see see if it works. John Graham-Cumming is a programmer working on creating the Babbage Analytical Engine.
The World is an independent newsroom. We’re not funded by billionaires; instead, we rely on readers and listeners like you. As a listener, you’re a crucial part of our team and our global community. Your support is vital to running our nonprofit newsroom, and we can’t do this work without you. Will you support The World with a gift today? Donations made between now and Dec. 31 will be matched 1:1. Thanks for investing in our work!