John V. Atanasoff (1903-1995) interview: February 18, 1972
Henry S. Tropp · 1999
Interview begins with a discussion of Atanasoff's views on the history of computing, the contributions that were most significant, and their role in the development of ideas. Atanasoff expresses his historical activities in the field and relates them to what he thought the current ideas in computing machines were. The Atanasoff- Berry computing machine was a very early activity and idea that was original in the sense that it was done alone. Atanasoff recalls his years in high school, college, and graduate school and the individuals he met while in school who contributed to his early understanding of mathematics and physics, and development of ideas. Discusses his use of the Monroe Calculator and its influence and enhancement of his interest in computing machines. Atanasoff concludes with discussion of his development of a pertubation method in term of calculus variations. This was an attempt to depict the atom in terms of a principal in the calculus of variations. Individuals mentioned: J.W. Woodrow, John Sidney Turner, P.T., Robinson, Henry Wallace, Prof. Snedicker, A.E. Brant, R.A. Fisher.