Computers were invented gradually over time, starting from early mechanical devices to the first modern electronic machines. Charles Babbage, in the early 19th century (1822), conceptualized and designed the first mechanical computers—the Difference Engine and then the more advanced Analytical Engine, which introduced key concepts of programmable computing but were never completed in his lifetime. These machines laid the foundation for modern computers but were mechanical. The first electronic programmable computer was the Colossus, invented in 1943 to help British codebreakers during World War II. Shortly after, the Atanasoff-Berry Computer (1942) was developed, which used digital binary calculations, and the ENIAC (1945) became the first general-purpose electronic computer, capable of being reprogrammed for various tasks. Thus, the true beginning of modern computer technology is often marked by these mid-20th century inventions. In summary:
- Early beginnings: Mechanical computing concepts by Charles Babbage, from 1822.
- First electronic programmable computer: Colossus in 1943.
- First general-purpose electronic computer: ENIAC in 1945.
Hence, the invention of computers spans from the 19th century conceptions to electronic realizations in the 1940s.
