Alice Rowe Burks
Alice Rowe Burks (née Rowe, August 20, 1920 – November 21, 2017) was an esteemed American author renowned for her contributions to the literature on children's books and the history of electronic computers. Her work intersects with significant historical developments in computing and provides a unique perspective on the legal battles that shaped the technological landscape of the 20th century.
Early Life and Education
Burks was a graduate of Oberlin College, where she completed her degree in 1942. This institution is known for its rich history of academic excellence and its commitment to social justice, producing influential figures in various fields.
Contributions to Computer History
Alice Rowe Burks is perhaps best known for her book, "Who Invented the Computer?: The Legal Battle That Changed Computing History," published in 2003. This work delves into the pivotal legal case concerning the invention of the computer. The book highlights the contributions of John Vincent Atanasoff, an American physicist and inventor credited with inventing the first electronic digital computer at Iowa State College.
The book details the Honeywell, Inc. v. Sperry Rand Corp. lawsuit, a significant legal battle that determined the validity of patents related to the ENIAC, one of the earliest electronic general-purpose computers. Through this case, Burks and her husband, Arthur Burks, a former member of the ENIAC engineering team, argued that the ENIAC was derived from Atanasoff's earlier work.
Children's Literature
In addition to her work on computing history, Alice Rowe Burks also authored several children's books. These works showcase her versatility as a writer and her ability to engage young readers with imaginative and informative content. Her contributions to children's literature reflect her dedication to education and storytelling.
Personal Life
Alice Rowe Burks was married to Arthur Burks, who was not only a computer scientist but also collaborated closely with her on various projects. Together, they made substantial contributions to the understanding and documentation of computing history.
Legacy
Alice Rowe Burks's legacy lies in her dual contributions to both children's literature and the historical understanding of computing. Her work remains a valuable resource for those interested in the origins of modern technology and the legal battles that defined its development.