Ward Christensen: The BBS Pioneer Who Shaped Retrotech and Online Communities

Monday, 14 October 2024, 20:05

BBS was the cornerstone of digital communication, brought to life by visionary Ward Christensen. His work alongside Randy Suess paved the way for today's online societies. With the passing of Christensen at age 78, we reflect on his tremendous impact on retrotech and community-building in the digital age.
Arstechnica
Ward Christensen: The BBS Pioneer Who Shaped Retrotech and Online Communities

The Legacy of BBS in Online Culture

Ward Christensen, co-inventor of the computer bulletin board system (BBS), died at age 78 in Rolling Meadows, Illinois. With Randy Suess, he created the first BBS in Chicago in 1978, initiating a significant cultural era of digital community-building that continues to influence our online world.

A Humble Innovator's Journey

Friends and associates describe Christensen as humble and unassuming, a quiet innovator who never sought the spotlight for his groundbreaking work. Despite establishing one of the foundational technologies of the digital age, he enjoyed a modest career at IBM and faced the rise of the internet without bitterness.

Remembering Ward

“Ward was the quietest, pleasantest, gentlest dude,” said Jason Scott, creator of BBS: The Documentary, reflecting on their discussions and Christensen's vast influence. In a 2002 interview, Scott underscored the essence of Christensen as a dedicated craftsman, reminiscent of a gardener nurturing a digital landscape.


This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.


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