Ready to dig into the untold stories of tech? We’re not talking about the usual suspects here. Nope, this is forgotten tech history at its finest. Get ready for a wild ride through the quirks, the triumphs, and the spectacular fails that shaped our digital world.
Ever heard of the inventor who never got credit? Or the innovation that changed everything—before it was lost to time? These 15 books uncover the hidden figures and overlooked events that deserve a spot in the tech hall of fame. You won’t find these tales in your standard history book.
From pioneers who paved the way to the unsung heroes working in the shadows, this list has it all. Each book is a portal to a different era, where tech was raw, untamed, and anything but boring. If you’re a fan of underdogs and forgotten legends, you’re in for a treat.
So, grab your favorite coffee and settle in. These reads will have you hooked, laughing, and maybe even shouting, “How did I not know this?” Trust me, this journey through forgotten tech history is one you won’t want to miss.
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TIME TRAVEL WITH THESE
15 FORGOTTEN
TECH HISTORY CLASSICS
Early Innovators: Best Books on Forgotten Tech Pioneers
These tech pioneers were the original rule-breakers. They didn’t just think outside the box—they invented the box, coded it, and then threw it into the future. But here’s the kicker: most people have never heard of them!
In this section, we’re shining a spotlight on the forgotten heroes of tech history. From Ada Lovelace’s mind-blowing algorithms to John Atanasoff’s groundbreaking computer, these innovators laid the foundation for everything digital. If you’re ready to uncover the best-kept secrets of forgotten tech history, these books are your next must-reads!
“Ada’s Algorithm” by James Essinger
Step aside, Babbage! Ada Lovelace, the unsung heroine of the computing world, is here to steal the spotlight. In “Ada’s Algorithm,” James Essinger brings to life the extraordinary tale of Ada Lovelace, the first computer programmer before computers even existed. Lovelace’s visionary mind decoded Charles Babbage’s Analytical Engine, and she envisioned a future where machines could think. Essinger’s narrative zips through the Victorian era with the flair of a steampunk novel, giving us a fascinating glimpse into the life of a woman far ahead of her time. It’s a page-turner that will have you shouting, “Ada, you genius!”
Check out “Ada’s Algorithm”: Amazon
“The Man Who Invented the Computer” by Jane Smiley
Move over, Silicon Valley. John Atanasoff is here to reclaim his throne! “The Man Who Invented the Computer” by Jane Smiley unravels the gripping story of how Atanasoff, in the sleepy cornfields of Iowa, laid the foundation for modern computing. This book is a rollercoaster ride of innovation, rivalry, and academic drama. Atanasoff’s journey, filled with eureka moments and late-night tinkering, will have you cheering for the underdog. Smiley’s storytelling is as crisp as a freshly built circuit, making this a must-read for anyone who thinks history is boring. Spoiler alert: it’s not!
Check out “The Man Who Invented the Computer”: Amazon
“The Innovators” by Walter Isaacson
“The Innovators” by Walter Isaacson is like a tech history remix, spinning together the beats of both the famous and the forgotten. From Ada Lovelace’s pioneering algorithms to the garage-born genius of Jobs and Wozniak, Isaacson dives deep into the minds that sparked the digital revolution. But it’s not just the big names that steal the show; the unsung heroes, the quirky collaborators, and the teams that made it all possible get their well-deserved spotlight, too. Isaacson’s writing is as electrifying as the innovations he chronicles, weaving together tales of triumph, failure, and everything in between. This book isn’t just a read—it’s a high-voltage journey through the past that will have you geeking out over the tech we use every day!
Check out “The Innovators”: Amazon
Women in Tech: Must-Read Books on Hidden Figures
These women were the original tech trailblazers, coding, cracking, and creating long before it was cool. They didn’t just make history—they rewrote it in ones and zeros! But somehow, their stories ended up tucked away in the footnotes.
In this section, we’re bringing their incredible achievements to center stage. From building the backbone of the internet to pulling off code-breaking feats that would make any spy jealous, these must-read books dive into the lives of the women who shaped tech in ways you won’t believe. Buckle up, because you’re about to discover some seriously awesome stories in forgotten tech history!
“Broad Band: The Untold Story of the Women Who Made the Internet” by Claire L. Evans
Ladies and gentlemen, meet the unsung architects of the internet! Claire L. Evans’ “Broad Band” is a riveting tribute to the women who laid the digital foundations we now take for granted. Forget Al Gore; it’s time to credit Ada, Grace, and the gang! Evans’ narrative bursts with energy, bringing to light the stories of female innovators who hacked their way into the tech world despite the odds. Each chapter is a tale of grit, genius, and guts, told with wit and a dash of humor. This book will have you high-fiving the air as you learn about the trailblazers who made surfing the web possible.
Check out “Broad Band: The Untold Story of the Women Who Made the Internet”: Amazon
“Grace Hopper and the Invention of the Information Age” by Kurt W. Beyer
Ever heard of the term “debugging”? Thank Grace Hopper, the queen of code! In “Grace Hopper and the Invention of the Information Age,” Kurt W. Beyer takes us on a whirlwind tour of Hopper’s incredible life. From the navy to the nascent computer industry, Hopper’s contributions were nothing short of revolutionary. Beyer’s biography is a delightful blend of technical insight and personal story, showing us how Hopper’s ingenuity led to the development of the first compiler. The anecdotes about Hopper’s no-nonsense attitude and her famous “nanoseconds” are pure gold. This book is a celebration of a woman who didn’t just break barriers—she blew them to bits with a well-placed algorithm.
Check out “Grace Hopper and the Invention of the Information Age”: Amazon
“Code Girls: The Untold Story of the American Women Code Breakers of World War II” by Liza Mundy
Grab your trench coat and magnifying glass—it’s time to delve into the secret world of codebreaking! Liza Mundy’s “Code Girls” is an electrifying account of the American women who cracked codes and shattered stereotypes during World War II. Mundy’s prose is as sharp as the women she writes about, weaving together tales of espionage, cryptography, and female empowerment. These women didn’t just work behind the scenes; they were the unseen warriors of the war effort. “Code Girls” is a riveting read that will leave you marveling at the sheer brilliance and bravery of these hidden figures. It’s like “Hidden Figures” meets “James Bond,” and trust me, you won’t want to put it down.
Check out “Code Girls: The Untold Story of the American Women Code Breakers of World War II”: Amazon
“Hidden Figures” by Margot Lee Shetterly
Move over, Neil Armstrong. The real stars of the space race were Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, and Christine Darden! Margot Lee Shetterly’s “Hidden Figures” is a captivating chronicle of the African-American women mathematicians at NASA who helped send America to space. Shetterly’s narrative shines with the brilliance of these extraordinary women who overcame racial and gender barriers to achieve the impossible. Their calculations were instrumental in launching John Glenn into orbit, and their legacy is nothing short of stellar. With a narrative that’s both heartwarming and mind-blowing, “Hidden Figures” is a must-read that celebrates the true heroes of the space race.
Check out “Hidden Figures”: Amazon
Unsung Heroes: Essential Reads on Overlooked Innovators
Ever wonder who’s behind the tech that powers your everyday life? Spoiler: it’s not always the people in the headlines. These unsung heroes were the real game-changers, quietly revolutionizing the world while others took the spotlight.
In this section, we’re diving into the best books that uncover these overlooked innovators. From the brainiacs at Bell Labs to the electrifying genius of Tesla, these reads shine a light on the minds that deserve way more credit. Get ready to uncover some serious gems in forgotten tech history!
“The Idea Factory: Bell Labs and the Great Age of American Innovation” by Jon Gertner
Strap in for a wild ride through the corridors of Bell Labs, the birthplace of almost everything cool in the tech world! “The Idea Factory” by Jon Gertner is a fascinating dive into the minds behind some of the 20th century’s greatest technological advancements. From transistors to lasers, these unsung heroes turned science fiction into reality. Gertner’s narrative crackles with energy as he chronicles the epic breakthroughs and the quirky geniuses who made them possible. If you ever wondered where innovation was born, this book is your ultimate guide. Prepare to be amazed and maybe just a little bit jealous of all those brainiacs.
Check out “The Idea Factory: Bell Labs and the Great Age of American Innovation”: Amazon
“Tesla: Inventor of the Modern” by Richard Munson
Nikola Tesla, the rockstar of the tech world! Forget Edison; it’s Tesla who truly electrifies. Richard Munson’s “Tesla: Inventor of the Modern” paints a vivid portrait of this eccentric genius whose inventions power our lives today. Tesla’s story is one of relentless innovation, mind-boggling inventions, and a fair share of drama. Munson’s writing is as dynamic as a Tesla coil, making this biography a page-turner. From wireless power to the alternating current, Tesla’s visionary ideas were light-years ahead of his time. Dive into this book, and you’ll come out seeing Tesla not just as an inventor, but as a true tech wizard.
Check out “Tesla: Inventor of the Modern”: Amazon
Forgotten Inventions: Hidden Gems in Tech History
Let’s dive into the forgotten tech that quietly shaped the world we live in today. These inventions may not be front-page news anymore, but they were game-changers in their time, laying the groundwork for the gadgets we can’t live without.
In this section, we’re shining a light on these hidden gems of tech history. From Edison’s lesser-known innovations to the telegraph that basically kick-started the internet, these books uncover the cool inventions that history almost forgot. If you’re ready to geek out on some serious forgotten tech history, these reads are right up your alley!
“Edison and the Rise of Innovation” by Leonard DeGraaf
We all know Edison as the lightbulb guy, but did you know he also invented talking dolls? Yup, the man was a fountain of ideas! Leonard DeGraaf’s “Edison and the Rise of Innovation” takes you beyond the familiar and into the weird and wonderful world of Edison’s lesser-known inventions. DeGraaf’s narrative is a treasure trove of quirky and groundbreaking creations, showcasing Edison’s relentless curiosity. From electric pens to ghost machines, this book reveals the hidden gems of Edison’s genius. It’s a delightful romp through history that will make you appreciate the sheer breadth of Edison’s impact on our world.
Check out “Edison and the Rise of Innovation”: Amazon
“The Victorian Internet” by Tom Standage
Hold onto your top hats, folks! “The Victorian Internet” by Tom Standage takes you back to the 19th century when the telegraph was the ultimate high-tech gadget. This book draws fascinating parallels between the telegraph network and today’s internet, showing that even in the age of steam, people were just as obsessed with instant communication. Standage’s storytelling is as brisk and engaging as a telegram, packed with colorful characters and intriguing anecdotes. Whether it’s the telegraph romance or the first instances of hacking, you’ll find yourself captivated by this bygone era’s tech revolution. It’s a historical deep dive that feels surprisingly modern.
Check out “The Victorian Internet”: Amazon
Tech’s Turning Points: Best Books on Forgotten Disasters and Triumphs
Tech history is full of moments where everything went sideways—but instead of crashing and burning, these disasters led to some of the most incredible breakthroughs. These books dive into the turning points that changed everything, from unexpected engineering failures to the first digital weapon.
In this section, we’re spotlighting the best books on those game-changing disasters and triumphs. Whether it’s the story of Stuxnet, the digital weapon that rewrote the rules of cyber warfare, or the brilliant minds who turned failure into innovation, these reads will take you deep into the hidden side of forgotten tech history.
“The Ghost of the Executed Engineer” by Loren R. Graham
Engineering can be a deadly business—just ask Peter Palchinsky. Loren R. Graham’s “The Ghost of the Executed Engineer” is a haunting tale of innovation and tragedy in Soviet Russia. Palchinsky’s story is a stark reminder of the human cost of technological progress, as his critiques of Soviet engineering policies led to his execution. Graham’s narrative is gripping and sobering, shedding light on the dark side of industrialization. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the ethical dilemmas of engineering and the poignant story of a man who dared to speak out.
Check out “The Ghost of the Executed Engineer”: Amazon
“The Soul of A New Machine” by Tracy Kidder
In “The Soul of A New Machine,” Tracy Kidder throws you into the adrenaline-fueled world of late 1970s tech innovation, where a team of determined engineers races to build a groundbreaking computer at Data General Corporation. Kidder captures the intensity, passion, and sheer grit of these tech pioneers as they work around the clock, driven by the thrill of creating something revolutionary. It’s not just a story about technology—it’s about the human spirit, the relentless pursuit of excellence, and the wild ride that comes with pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to turn a vision into reality, this book is your backstage pass.
Check out “The Soul of A New Machine”: Amazon
“To Engineer is Human: The Role of Failure in Successful Design” by Henry Petroski
“To Engineer is Human” by Henry Petroski delves into the fascinating world where failure isn’t just a possibility—it’s a vital part of the design process. With sharp wit and insightful analysis, Petroski explores famous engineering disasters, like the collapse of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, to show how these failures have led to smarter, safer innovations. This isn’t just a book for engineers; it’s a universal lesson in how mistakes, big and small, are stepping stones to success. Petroski’s exploration of the role of failure in engineering will change the way you view both your blunders and the world around you, revealing how every setback can be a blueprint for future success.
Check out “To Engineer is Human: The Role of Failure in Successful Design”: Amazon
“Countdown to Zero Day: Stuxnet and the Launch of the World’s First Digital Weapon” by Kim Zetter
Buckle up for a cyber-thriller that reads like a spy novel! Kim Zetter’s “Countdown to Zero Day” delves into the clandestine world of cyber warfare with the story of Stuxnet, the first digital weapon. Zetter’s investigative prowess shines as she uncovers the origins and implications of this groundbreaking virus. The narrative is tense, detailed, and utterly absorbing, revealing the high-stakes game of modern cyber conflict. This book is a wake-up call to the realities of digital warfare, blending technical insight with thrilling storytelling. It’s a must-read for anyone curious about the unseen battles raging in our digital world.
Check out “Countdown to Zero Day: Stuxnet and the Launch of the World’s First Digital Weapon”: Amazon
Extra Resources
Here are some useful links for more research on cybersecurity and tech history.
Other posts by me
- Tech History Part 1: Industrial Revolution – WWII
- Tech History Part 2: WWII – Present
- Cybersecurity History: Post WWII – Present
Book recommendation posts by me
- Timeless Cybersecurity Classics: 16 Timeless Cybersecurity Classics Every Tech Lover Must Read