The Apple II Age: How the Computer Became Personal

The Apple II, designed by Steve Wozniak and hustled into the marketplace by Steve Jobs, became one of the most prominent personal computers of the 1970s due to its software, which allowed people to play, calculate, code, and print. Historian Laine Nooney offers a new understanding of how the hobbyists microcomputers of the 1970s became the personal computer we know today, recounting a constellation of software creation stories.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 09 May 2023
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

The Apple II, a groundbreaking personal computer, holds a pivotal place in the history of Apple Inc. Its creation, led by the visionary engineer Steve Wozniak and driven by the entrepreneurial spirit of Steve Jobs, marked a significant turning point in the company's journey to becoming an industry powerhouse.

The Apple II, with its versatile hardware, was not just a machine; it was a platform that transformed the way people interacted with computers. However, its most captivating aspect lies in its software. Historian Laine Nooney delves into the realm of software, revealing the underlying reasons why people purchased computers in the early days. It was not about hacking or coding but about playing, calculating, printing, and engaging in various other everyday tasks.

The story of personal computing in the United States is not about the evolution of hackers but about the rise of ordinary users. Nooney weaves together a constellation of software creation stories, showcasing the journey from the hobbyists' microcomputers of the 1970s to the personal computers we know today. From iconic software products like VisiCalc and The Print Shop to historic games like Mystery House and Snooper Troops, The Apple II Age offers an unprecedented glimpse into the people, the industry, and the money that shaped the microcomputing milieu.

What sets The Apple II Age apart is its comprehensive coverage of the era. It explores the influence of the Apple II on the development of other personal computers, the emergence of software companies, and the cultural impact it had on society. The book also sheds light on the technical challenges faced by Wozniak and Jobs during the early days of the computer industry, as well as the strategies they employed to overcome them.

In conclusion, The Apple II Age is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of personal computing. It provides a fresh perspective on the origins of the industry, highlighting the pivotal role of software in shaping the trajectory of Apple Inc. and the broader computer revolution. Through its detailed narratives and insightful analysis, the book offers a valuable contribution to our understanding of the technological advancements that have transformed our lives.

Weight: 668g
Dimension: 163 x 237 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226816524