c) Ada Lovelace

Ada Lovelace, a pioneering figure in computer science, authored the first algorithm intended for a machine, making her arguably the world’s first computer programmer. Born in 1815 in London, Lovelace was a mathematician and writer. She worked with Charles Babbage on his proposed mechanical general-purpose computer, the Analytical Engine. Lovelace’s notes on the engine include what is essentially the first algorithm designed to be processed by a machine. Her visionary approach foresaw the future potential of computers beyond mere number crunching. Lovelace’s work laid the groundwork for later developments in computing and her contributions to the field have been recognized and celebrated in the modern era.