Video: The Surprising History of Your Computer

Welcome! This week, we'll be exploring the fascinating history of modern computing. To kick things off, we'll be watching the video "The Cold War and Consumerism: Crash Course Computer Science #24."

Have you ever wondered how the computer, a once-massive and expensive piece of machinery, ended up on your desk or in your pocket? This video delves into the pivotal decades between the 1940s and 1970s to uncover the surprising forces that drove this incredible transformation.

You'll discover how major historical events, including the intense rivalry of the Cold War, the ambitious goals of the Space Race, and the rise of global consumerism, all played crucial roles in the rapid advancement of computer technology.

As you watch, consider this question: Which of the historical factors discussed in the video do you think had the biggest impact on the technology you use every day?

Enjoy the video! 👋