Ada Lovelace

Mathematician

December 10, 1815

Sagittarius

November 27, 1852

36

London, England

Ada Lovelace was a pioneering mathematician and philosopher known for her contributions to the field of computer science. As one of the first computer programmers, she helped develop Charles Babbage’s mechanical computer, known as the Analytical Engine. She is best known for her detailed notes on the Engine, which included what is now recognized as the first algorithm intended for implementation on a machine. Other notable works include her translation of an article on the Analytical Engine by Luigi Menabrea and her prescient observations on the potential uses of computers beyond simple calculations. Lovelace’s achievements continue to inspire women interested in science and technology.

Ada Lovelace was born Ada Gordon in London in 1815 to poet Lord Byron and Annabella Milbanke. After her father’s marriage failed, her mother encouraged her interest in mathematics and logic as a way to prevent her from following in her father’s infamous footsteps. At the age of 17, Ada met Charles Babbage, a mathematician and inventor who was working on the design for a mechanical computer called the Analytical Engine. She collaborated with Babbage on the project and was later acknowledged for her contributions to his work. Ada married William King in 1835 and became known as Ada Lovelace, though she continued to sign her work with both names.

Ada Lovelace suffered from various health issues throughout her life, including what may have been migraines, neuralgia, and possibly uterine cancer. She was bedridden for many months and in great pain toward the end of her life. Despite her own suffering, she continued to collaborate with and support Babbage’s work, and remained an important influence on the development of computer science long after her death.