The Machine That Changed the World

The Machine That Changed the World (1992)

EndedDocumentary show

The Machine That Changed the World (1992) (broadcast under the alternative title The Dream Machine in the UK, with different narration) is a 5-episode television series on the history of electronic digital computers. It was written and directed by Nancy Linde, and produced by WGBH Television of Boston, Massachusetts, and the British Broadcasting Corporation. Backers included the Association for Computing Machinery, the National Science Foundation, and the UNISYS Corporation. The first three episodes deal with the history of fully electronic general-purpose digital computers from the ENIAC through desktop microcomputers. The pre-history of such machines is examined in the first episode ("Giant Brains"), and includes a discussion of the contributions of Charles Babbage, Ada Lovelace, Alan Turing, and others. The fourth episode ("The Thinking Machine") explores the topic of artificial intelligence. The fifth episode ("The World at Your Fingertips") explores the then-newly-emerging worldwide networking of computers. All episodes begin and end with a song by Peter Howell, "Stellae matutinae radius exoritur" ("The morning star's ray arises") and are narrated by long-time Frontline narrator Will Lyman.

Recent Episodes

EpisodeNameAirdate
S01E05The World At Your Fingertipsjanv. 1, 1992
S01E04The Thinking Machinejanv. 1, 1992
S01E03The Paperback Computerjanv. 1, 1992
S01E02Inventing the Futurejanv. 1, 1992
S01E01Great Brainsjanv. 1, 1992
View all episodesView all seasons

Frequently Asked Questions  Warning: Spoilers

When did 'The Machine That Changed the World' premiere?

'The Machine That Changed the World' premiered on April 14, 1992.

What is the genre of 'The Machine That Changed the World'?

'The Machine That Changed the World' is a documentary series.

Who narrated 'The Machine That Changed the World'?

'The Machine That Changed the World' was narrated by Will Lyman.

How many episodes are there in 'The Machine That Changed the World'?

'The Machine That Changed the World' consists of five episodes.

What is the focus of 'The Machine That Changed the World'?

'The Machine That Changed the World' explores the history and impact of computers and computer technology.

Who produced 'The Machine That Changed the World'?

'The Machine That Changed the World' was produced by WGBH Boston.

What is the runtime of each episode of 'The Machine That Changed the World'?

Each episode of 'The Machine That Changed the World' has a runtime of approximately one hour.

Which episodes of 'The Machine That Changed the World' received critical acclaim?

Several episodes of 'The Machine That Changed the World' received critical acclaim for their in-depth exploration of computer technology and its impact on society.

Who were the main contributors to 'The Machine That Changed the World'?

'The Machine That Changed the World' featured interviews with leading experts, researchers, and pioneers in the field of computer technology.

What are some of the key topics covered in 'The Machine That Changed the World'?

'The Machine That Changed the World' covers topics such as the invention of the computer, the development of software, artificial intelligence, and the impact of computers on various industries and aspects of human life.

Did 'The Machine That Changed the World' receive any awards?

'The Machine That Changed the World' won several awards, including a Peabody Award and an Emmy Award.

How was 'The Machine That Changed the World' received by audiences?

'The Machine That Changed the World' was well-received by audiences and gained a dedicated following for its informative and engaging content.

Did 'The Machine That Changed the World' influence other TV shows or documentaries?

'The Machine That Changed the World' had a significant influence on subsequent TV shows and documentaries that explored the history and impact of technology.

Were there any controversies surrounding 'The Machine That Changed the World'?

'The Machine That Changed the World' did not face any major controversies during its airing.

Is 'The Machine That Changed the World' available for streaming or purchase?

'The Machine That Changed the World' may be available for streaming or purchase on various platforms, depending on your location and the availability of rights.

Is 'The Machine That Changed the World' still relevant today?

'The Machine That Changed the World' remains relevant today as it provides a historical perspective on the development and impact of computer technology, which continues to shape our world.

Also known as

  • The Dream Machine (United Kingdom)

Recently Updated Shows

Recently updated shows that might be of your interest.
High Potential
Running

High Potential

High Potential follows Morgan, a single mom with an exceptional mind, whose unconventional knack for solving crimes leads to an unusual and unstoppable partnership with a by-the-book seasoned detective.

Ghosts
Running

Ghosts

Samantha and Jay throw caution to the wind when they convert their recently inherited country estate into a bed-and-breakfast. Call it mislaid plans. Not only is the place falling apart, but it's also inhabited by spirits of previous residents -- whom only Samantha can see and hear. Ghosts spins the funny, heartfelt story about a newfound dream that reveals connection and self-discovery aren't just for the living.

Farmer Wants a Wife
Running

Farmer Wants a Wife

City meets country in this fun-filled Australian series. Follow six lonely farmers on the road to romance as they choose between hundreds of prospective partners. Prepare for tears, joy and jealousy, all in a heart-warming journey to find a wife.

Silo
Running

Silo

In a ruined and toxic future, thousands live in a giant silo deep underground. After its sheriff breaks a cardinal rule and residents die mysteriously, engineer Juliette starts to uncover shocking secrets and the truth about the silo.

Grey's Anatomy
Running

Grey's Anatomy

The doctors of Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital deal with life-or-death consequences on a daily basis -- it's in one another that they find comfort, friendship and, at times, more than friendship. Together they're discovering that neither medicine nor relationships can be defined in black and white. Real life only comes in shades of grey.