Pioneering British mathematician and mechanical engineer (1791-1871) whose Difference Engine and Analytical Engine are generally acknowledged as the first programmable computers. ALS signed “C. Babbage,” one page, 3.75 x 4.75, July 6, 1848. Handwritten letter to an unidentified woman, in full: "I am very sorry, a previous engagement prevents me from having the pleasure of dining with your mother and yourself on Thursday the 11th." Affixed to a slightly larger sheet and in fine condition, with trimmed edges.
From 1847 to 1849, much of Babbage's time was absorbed by the development of his Difference Engine No. 2, an improved version of his original model. He died without building the machine, but insisted that future generations would prove the concept sound. In 1991, an engine was faithfully built to his specifications; the automatic computing engine functioned exactly as predicted.
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