Final answer:
Fifty years ago, computers were predominately used by professionals in fields such as science and engineering, with their use mainly in universities and the military. The evolution of computer technology was greatly influenced by the need for advanced systems in the space program and business data processing. The proliferation of computing power began with large, expensive systems and eventually led to more accessible minicomputers in the 1970s.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fifty years ago, computers were used primarily by researchers and scientists, engineers, programmers, and academics. These early computers were significant investments, often bulky, expensive, and complex systems, which confined their use to professional realms like universities and the military. The history of technology shows us that technology started in the early stages of human societies and evolved with time, whereas specialized engineering fields emerged due to the increasing complexity and knowledge in science and technology. Computer scientists and engineers have played essential roles in advancing computer technology, designing not just the computers themselves but also the instruction sets and programs that manage systems and devices in various industries.
The Computer Age began in the 1940s with experimental computers, becoming commercially significant in the 1950s, and seeing a broader distribution in the 1970s with the advent of minicomputers from companies like IBM and Digital Equipment Company. This expansion continued with the development of technology for the space program, as well as the need for record-keeping and data processing in businesses and government agencies.