The world of data science is rapidly growing with the potential to revolutionize industries and change the way we make decisions. However, this is not a new concept, people have been applying machine learning to various forms of gambling, hoping to gain a slight advantage and bring in big wins or accumulated small wins. Although some companies, like Google and Facebook, have made fortunes using data science, they often do so by selling the idea that they can use data to create better targeting of advertising.
The idea that there is a "killer solution" just over the horizon has been a recurring theme throughout history. Mathematicians and scientists have always been on the lookout for the next breakthrough, the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, only to be disappointed and never actually reach the crest of the hill.
One of the most notable pioneers of computing and data science was Ada Lovelace, the daughter of poet Lord Byron. She may not only have been the first computer programmer, but also the first big data scientist. Lovelace was fascinated by the potential of machines to perform complex calculations, and her work with mathematician Charles Babbage led her to become the first computer programmer. Lovelace met Charles Babbage at the age of 17, Babbage is known as the father of computing, having invented the "Difference Engine", which was designed to perform mathematical calculations. Lovelace got a chance to look at the machine before it was finished and was captivated by it.
Babbage also made plans for another device, the "Analytical Engine", which was designed to handle more complex calculations. Lovelace translated an article about it and added extensive notes of her own, including what is considered to be the first algorithm for a machine. As a result, Lovelace is now known as the first programmer. Her vision for computing extended beyond numerical calculations, and she saw the potential of machines to perform a wide range of tasks.
Babbage needed money to build the Analytical Engine, and although the Difference Engine was supported with finance from Parliament, building the Analytical Engine would require further funding to pay for the manufacture of the specialized parts. Babbage petitioned Parliament for help, but he was not a great presenter and lacked social skills, and his petition was unsuccessful. Without Babbage's permission, Ada tried to get Parliament to provide the money he needed, but she failed as well.
Lovelace was a woman ahead of her time, but her contributions to computing and data science are still felt today. She saw the potential of machines to perform complex calculations, and her work with Charles Babbage led to her becoming the first computer programmer. Ada's work was not limited to computing; she was fascinated with the potential of data analysis and big data.
Lovelace then had the idea of using her mathematical skills to try and win money by gambling on the horses. She formed a syndicate with friends and launched a serious attempt to create a data model for successful betting in 1851. However, her plan failed, leaving her thousands of pounds in debt. She may have been the first to gather data that proved that no amount of mathematics could beat the bookies!
In the recent US presidential election, data science became a battleground for both presidential candidates. Both candidates used mathematical models and data analysis to direct their campaigning time. The model used by Hillary Clinton was called ADA, in honor of Ada Lovelace, and she had even planned a secondary victory party for the data scientist behind ADA.
Lovelace died of uterine cancer in 1852 at the age of 36. Her contributions to the field of computing and data science are significant yet often overlooked. In her honor, the computer language ADA received final approval on December 10, 1980. The Department of Defense Military Standard gave the language the reference number MIL-STD-1815 in honor of the year of Ada Lovelace’s birth.
The Ada Initiative was also established as a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing the involvement of women in the free culture and open-source movements. Lovelace's legacy lives on through this initiative, which strives to promote diversity and inclusivity in the field of data science.
Modern-day data scientists recognize Ada Lovelace's contributions to the field of data science, and her legacy inspires them to push forward in new and innovative ways. Although Lovelace is often overlooked in the history of computing, her vision of machines as tools for more than just numerical calculations remains relevant today. As we continue to push forward in the field of data science, we can learn from Lovelace's example and strive to create a more diverse and inclusive future for all.
Ada Lovelace was a remarkable pioneer in computing and data science. Her work laid the foundation for modern-day data analysis, and her legacy continues to inspire new generations of data scientists. Her vision of machines as tools for more than just numerical calculations remains relevant to this day, and we can learn from her example to create a more equitable and inclusive future for all.