Alan Turing Biography Quiz

Study Notes

Alan Mathison Turing was born on June 23, 1912, in Maida Vale, London, England.
Turing's 1936 paper, "On Computable Numbers," established that a universal algorithmic method for determining mathematical truth cannot exist.
This paper introduced the concept of the "Turing machine," a foundational model for understanding computation.
Turing's work is widely regarded as the basis for modern research in artificial intelligence.

Turing showed exceptional intelligence from a young age, despite receiving little respect from some teachers.
Attended Sherborne School at age 13, developing a keen interest in math and science.
Enrolled at King's College, Cambridge from 1931 to 1934; his dissertation proved the central limit theorem.
Elected a fellow at King's College upon graduation due to his significant academic contributions.

During World War II, Turing's mathematical papers on code-breaking became vital to the Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ).
Notably worked at the National Physical Laboratory in the mid-1940s, where he designed the Automatic Computing Engine (ACE).
Though never fully realized, the ACE's concepts influenced computer designs worldwide, including the English Electric DEUCE and the American Bendix G-15.
Held top positions in the mathematics department and computing laboratory at the University of Manchester in the late 1940s.
Published "Computing Machinery and Intelligence" in 1950, introducing the "Turing Test" as a standard for evaluating machine intelligence.

Homosexuality was illegal in the UK during the early 1950s; Turing was charged with gross indecency in January 1952 after reporting a burglary involving Arnold Murray.
He faced a choice between probation with hormonal treatments or imprisonment; he chose treatment, undergoing chemical castration.
As a consequence, Turing lost his security clearance and was barred from cryptographic work.
Turing died on June 7, 1954, with the official cause listed as cyanide poisoning, ruled a suicide after a postmortem examination.
An apple was found beside him, but the cause of death was marked as asphyxia due to cyanide; some suggest it could have been accidental rather than intentional.

Awarded the Order of the British Empire shortly after World War II for his contributions.
A blue plaque was unveiled at his childhood home for his 86th birthday, recognizing his importance.
Statues commemorating Turing were erected at Bletchley Park and the University of Surrey to honor his legacy.
Named the second most significant alumnus of Princeton University by their alumni magazine, highlighting his enduring influence.
His contributions are widely celebrated, particularly in Manchester, where he spent significant time later in life.