Ada Lovelace

First computer programmer

Modern influential 100 sayings

Sayings by Ada Lovelace

The Analytical Engine is not merely a calculating machine. It is a thinking machine.

1843 — Interpretation of her notes, though not an exact quote, reflects her belief.
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I am much more than a mere mathematician; I am a metaphysician.

1840s — Letter to her mother, Lady Byron
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I have been working very hard, and I hope I may be able to make something of myself.

1830s — Letter to her mother, Lady Byron
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The brain is a most wonderful machine, and I have no doubt that it will one day be understood.

1840s — Letter to a friend
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I have a peculiar way of looking at things, which is sometimes a disadvantage, but sometimes a great advantage.

1830s — Letter to her mother, Lady Byron
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I am learning to conquer my natural impatience, which is a great step in advance.

1830s — Letter to her mother, Lady Byron
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The more I see of the world, the more I am convinced that there is a great deal to be done, and that I am one of those who are destined to do it.

1840s — Letter to a friend
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I have a mind to do great things, and I will not be thwarted.

1840s — Letter to her mother, Lady Byron
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I am a passionate creature, and I cannot be content with anything less than the best.

1840s — Letter to a friend
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I have a most unladylike thirst for knowledge.

1830s — Letter to her mother, Lady Byron
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I am convinced that the brain is capable of far more than we imagine.

1840s — Letter to a friend
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The Analytical Engine holds a position wholly its own; it is not merely an arithmetic machine, but a machine that can operate on symbols generally.

1843 — Notes on the Analytical Engine by Luigi Federico Menabrea, translated with extensive notes by Ada Lo…
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The more I think about it, the more I see that there are endless possibilities for this machine.

1843 — Letter to Charles Babbage
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I am not content to be a mere follower; I want to be a leader.

1840s — Letter to her mother, Lady Byron
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My brain is more than merely mortal; it is a repository of infinite possibilities.

1840s — Letter to a friend
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I am convinced that the future of knowledge lies in the development of machines that can assist the human mind.

1840s — Letter to a friend
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I have a peculiar turn of mind, which I believe is useful for scientific pursuits.

1830s — Letter to her mother, Lady Byron
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I am determined to leave my mark on the world.

1840s — Letter to her mother, Lady Byron
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The Analytical Engine opens up a new era in the history of scientific investigation.

1843 — Notes on the Analytical Engine by Luigi Federico Menabrea, translated with extensive notes by Ada Lo…
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I consider myself a kind of scientific explorer, venturing into uncharted territory.

1840s — Letter to a friend
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