This book explains the development of theoretical computer science in its early stages, specifically from 1965 to 1990. The author is among the pioneers of theoretical computer science, and he guides the reader through the early stages of development of this new discipline. He explains the origins of the field, arising from disciplines such as logic, mathematics, and electronics, and he describes the evolution of the key principles of computing in strands such as computability, algorithms, and programming.But mainly it's a story about people ¿ pioneers with diverse backgrounds and characters came together to overcome philosophical and institutional challenges and build a community. They collaborated on research efforts, they established schools and conferences, they developed the first related university courses, they taught generations of future researchers and practitioners, and they set up the key publications to communicate and archive their knowledge.The book is a fascinating insight into the field as it existed and evolved, it will be valuable reading for anyone interested in the history of computing.

A story about people, pioneers with diverse backgrounds and characters who established a new field

Tubes.- Lots of Insipid Stupid Parentheses.- Counting Steps in Cory Hall.- "I Hate Numerical Analysis".- Informatique théorique.- The Journal.- Data Structures, Program Structures.- Optimization and Approximation.- Relations.- Europe Strikes Back. Historical Documents.