The Chinese Computer: A Global History of the Information Age

The Chinese Computer: A Global History of the Information Age The development of Chinese language computing technology is a fascinating story of innovation and collaboration. Thomas S. Mullaney explores how the Chinese language, with its tens of thousands of characters and no alphabet, was adapted to input on standard QWERTY keyboards. This paradoxical challenge led to the creation of a new form of writing, "hypography," and had a profound impact on the way Chinese is written. Mullaney's book takes the reader on a journey through the history of electronic Chinese technology, from the aftermath of World War II to the present day. Along the way, he introduces a cast of characters from various backgrounds, including IBM, MIT, and the Chinese establishment, who played key roles in developing Chinese language computing. The result is a story of how China and the non-Western world contributed to the development of personal computing, enabling it to achieve a meaningful presence in global markets. By examining the history of Chinese language computing, Mullaney sheds light on the complex relationships between technology, culture, and society. This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of computing, the development of Chinese language technology, or the intersection of technology and global culture.