History of Early Computer Programming

Pioneers in Programming

• Augusta Ada Lovelace recognized as the first programmer in history.
• Contributed foundational concepts in computing through her work on Charles Babbage's Analytical Engine.

Development of Programming Languages

• BASIC (Beginners All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code) designed for ease of use in programming education and early computing.

Innovation in Software

• 1978: VISICALC launched as the first spreadsheet software, developed by Dan Bricklin and Bob Frankston.
• Revolutionized data management and financial calculations for personal and business use.

Microsoft and IBM Collaboration

• In 1980, Microsoft selected by IBM to provide programmers for the IBM PC, marking a crucial partnership in computing history.
• 1981: Microsoft developed PCDOS (Personal Computer Disk Operating System) to facilitate PC operations.

Advances in Operating Systems

• In 1981, Microsoft released a computer system that could translate instructions into machine code, essential for running software applications.
• November 10, 1983: Bill Gates unveiled Microsoft Windows, introducing a graphical user interface (GUI) for MS-DOS, transforming user interaction with computers.
• Windows versions progressed from 1.0 to 3.11, enhancing functionality and user experience.

Apple Macintosh

• Launched in 1984, the Macintosh series was a family of personal computers produced by Apple.
• Notable for incorporating a GUI, making computing more accessible to a broader audience.