Charles Babbage invented the first mechanical computer in 1822. His "Analytical Engine" was designed to be programmable by using punch cards, making it a precursor to modern computers. While Babbage's machine was never fully completed due to lack of funding, his ideas formed the basis for later computers. The document then provides historical context on the development of early calculating aids like the abacus and Napier's Bones, as well as early mechanical calculating machines invented in the 1600s and 1700s. It discusses how Babbage's analytical engine expanded on these ideas to create a more general purpose, programmable calculating machine.