Rather than write a blog about the details of the final half of the book, Computers, I would just like to reflect on something that I just realized. My first knowledge of computers was probably in 1975 when Pong was released, and I have no idea how they became what they are today. I mean I understand the technological advancement that is described in the book, I just don't remember it all happening. It was like a blur of different keyboards to the one I'm using right now. My most vivid memory, after Pong, is being in high school and learning computer programming. It was something like, "If x is this, then let y be that", vaguely of course. It wasn't until over ten years later that I bought my first desktop, and Dell was the leader at the time. And if it wasn't for my daughter, we probably wouldn't have purchased the laptop currently on my lap.
As I read through the developments of the last few decades, Atari, Apple, Microsoft, etc., I can't help but think that I should have been more aware of all the amazing new hardware and software that was being created before my eyes. How busy could I have been? I didn't even remember the famous Apple Macintosh commercial released during the 1984 superbowl. Thankfully, I caught up with it on YouTube. It's a good thing that everything we need to know about computers, is easily found on one. Having their complete history at our fingertips is a blessing for all of us who were there, but somehow missed the show. :)
I am right there with you. It seems as though much of the development and advancement is a blur. I have a few vague memories, like you, and I don't remember the famous Apple commercial, either. I never even thought to look for it on YouTube, but now, thanks to you, I will! I agree that having all of this information at our fingertips is a true blessing. We can play catch-up in our pajamas, from the comfort of our own homes, with a few clicks of the mouse.
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