The history of computers spans from ancient times to modern computers. Early devices like the abacus were used for calculations. In the 17th century, pioneering mathematicians and engineers began building mechanical calculating machines. Charles Babbage designed the Analytical Engine in the 1830s, considered a precursor to modern computers. Herman Hollerith developed punched cards for census data in the late 19th century. During World War II, electronic digital computers were developed using vacuum tubes, laying the foundations for stored-program computers and the first general-purpose electronic computers like ENIAC. Over generations, computers transitioned to newer technologies like transistors, integrated circuits, and microprocessors.