The basic purpose of this paper is to study an important example of the relationship between mathematics and computing in the period from 1945 to 1955. The example discussed is the construction of a computer at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey, the most distinguished mathematics research center of its day, and the use of this computer by the international mathematical community. The paper relates how John von Neumann, who supervised the construction, was the first to appreciate and advance the relationship between computing and mathematics. In particular, it tells how he advanced this relationship through his concurrent research in automata theory, computer design, numerical analysis, and mathematical physics; his promotion of scientific applications of the Institute’s computer; and his advocacy of computers for military research.

The paper is well written and aimed at the nonspecialist who wishes to learn about the evolution of today’s high-speed digital computer during the first decade of its existence. It gives a good insight into these developments and the people involved in them (including, besides von Neumann, N. Weiner, O. Veblen, M. H. A. Newman, F. Ayedelotte, E. Arten, S. Bachner, B. Mandelbrot, A. Taub, J. Todd, and O. Tarissky-Todd).

This is a good paper for classroom presentation or independent reading.