Many people think computers are 20th century inventions. Yet, computing began when our ancient ancestors devised the first rudimentary counting methods. A working knowledge of the calendar and the four seasons was important for farming, religion, and hunting. Our ancestors had instruments for keeping track of these events. Therefore, computing goes back a long way.

In the 19th century, inventors began creating mechanical counting machines and analytical engines. These machines paved the way for the first electrical computing machine. Innovations slowly began to transform the computer making it smaller, more reliable, and always faster. This continues today with new technologies constantly being created, but at a much more rapid pace. Today computers are part of our everyday lives, and technology innovations are expected. Let's start at the beginning to see how we got to the high speed computers of today.