The Diary of Ada Lovelace
Introduction
This is an unofficial diary of Ada Lovelace that talks about an amazing scientist (Ada Lovelace) that creates the first computer program. It also says some things that made Ada suffer a lot like cancer. Ada Lovelace was a good woman and succeeded in life. Overall, Ada has achieved many things in her life even though she only lived for 36 years. This is written by Kate Wambua.
1828
Dear Diary,
I am 12 years old and I have successfully built a fully-working flying machine made out of steam. I am also studying bird anatomy so I am really proud of the work I’ve been doing. While all that is happening, I have been finding some time to plan a book called “Flyology.” The book is going very well so far. I’ve always been dreaming of a world where I could fly. It would be awesome to experience flying. But I have been in private tutor classes ever since I was four, learning mathematics and science. I have never been in school.
1830
Dear Diary,
Right now, I am 14, and I am focusing on my mathematical studies. I am adding new notes to the analytical machine. I am also exploring the potential of the Analytical Engine beyond mere calculation. I am envisioning it to play music and create art. I hope that I find a way to make these things happen!
1833
Dear Diary,
I am currently 17 years old and I am with Charles Babbage. He is showing me this spectacular machine called the “Analytical Engine.” I find it very interesting and love it so much! I have also had a great interest in mechanics and flight. Flight and mechanics are just so interesting, having to make things fly and work with machines. But I have been interested in Charles’ work ever since!
1835
Dear Diary,
I am 19 years old and I have married William King. William King is a British nobleman and scientist. I am still working on the code for the Analytical Engine. Luckily, Charles is still helping me.
1838
Dear Diary,
Right now I am 22 years old and my husband (William King) has been created the first Earl of Lovelace. That means I am a countess! The title “Countess of Lovelace” elevates my social standing. I still find time to work on the Analytical Engine. I am now describing it as the first computer. I am still very interested in it and I am hoping to help Charles improve his work to make it even better!
1840
Dear Diary,
I am 24 years old and I am engaging in a correspondence course in mathematics with Augustus De Morgan, who is a mathematician. I am also continuing my project on the Analytical Engine, and I am trying to be able to make the first program, which will be called “Note G.” It is supposed to be an algorithm that calculates Bernoulli numbers, and Charles is also helping me improve the code.
1843
Dear Diary,
I am 27 years old this year. And I have some exciting news! I have finally found out a way to calculate Bernoulli numbers on the Analytical Engine. It is a program called “note G” that is an algorithm that calculates Bernoulli numbers. I have now published an Italian paper on Charles’ Analytical Engine. After completing it, I am thinking I should add art and music to it! I added extensive notes to the Analytical Engine as well! I am very proud and happy because I have made the first computer program!
1851
Dear Diary,
I am now 36, and I have found out bad news. In the hospital the doctors have told me I have uterine cancer. I am now focusing a lot on my health because it is making me suffer. Despite my illness, I am forming a gambling syndicate with my friends. But although that is happening, my mother wants to take control of my social time.
About the Author
Hi, I am Kate, a 4th grader who loves traveling with my family, drawing, and singing. It is truly amazing to be a part of this fantastic program. I love it! Anyway, I am the firstborn, and I have two younger siblings. I also LOVE to make snacks for my mum to eat and I also LOVE to watch my dad show me his kata (a karate thing) that always makes me want to practice MINE!! Also, my favorite color is yellow, and I like dogs; my favorite breed is a German shepherd, no offense to any cat lovers out there… I am also a REALLY kind person who loves the city and shopping with my family, and I like wearing dresses a lot because they are so comfortable. I also make books and read in my spare time for FUN! (I hate running for a special event).