[wideminded]

I wonder if Obama could tell you what Charles Babbage built (even if someone else proposed it).

Difference Engine http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Difference_engine

I'm not sure that Babbage ever actually built the "Difference engine". He is famous for producing the plans for it.

[VOA]

I'm not sure that Babbage ever actually built the "Difference engine".
He is famous for producing the plans for it.

Fair enough. I suppose English gentlemen didn't soil their hands
at some old-school lathe. Or casting the metal for the parts
of the difference engine!

I suppose I should have said I'd LOVE to hear Obama's response
to a reporter's question:
"Senator Obama, you seem to be well versed on the history of
the computer. Surely you can help me dispel my ignorance by
discussing the difference engine."

Whether Obama admitted ignorance or mumbled-bumbled his way
through an error-filled explanation of what a "difference
engine" was...the visual and audio would be...
PRICELESS!!!