New Learn Article: The Evolution of the Typewriter
You can use your computer to play games, type homework and even read this blog, but have you ever wondered what people used before the computer? Why are your keyboard's keys arranged the way that they are? We can thank the typewriter for leading up to the existence of the personal computer.
It is commonly believed that an Italian built the first typewriter for a blind Countess in 1808. With a cluster of keys and the paper hidden from the typist, the typewriter wasn't perfect, but it certainly sparked a revolution.
With the need for speed and automation, the typewriter further developed into subsequent versions. The keyboard was improved, typists could see what they were typing, and soon the typewriter was electronic.
Have you ever noticed how the keys spell QWERTY across the top left of your keyboard? It turns out that the keys on the keyboard were arranged in such a manner so as to prevent frequently struck keys from colliding. This became a necessary consideration as the typewriter caught on and people became faster typists.
To learn more, check out the new Learn article, The Evolution of the Typewriter!
Posted: Nov 2, 2009
