Ángela Ruiz Robles’s 121st birthday

Mar 28, 2016

Ángela Ruiz Robles’s 121st Birthday

Ángela Ruiz Robles, born 121 years ago today, was a writer, teacher, inventor, and pioneer of the e-book. Inspired by technological advancement in things like television and cars, she aimed to bring innovation to education as well. Her ingenious "mechanical encyclopedia," with information on scrolling coils that could be switched out for new ones, made it possible for students to study at home without carrying around heavy books. The invention also included a light source, so that students without access to electricity could read unimpaired. After she patented her invention, Robles continued to work on the fabrication of the encyclopedia, with the intention of making it more affordable for students everywhere.

Doodler Kevin Laughlin's design spells "Google" with the looping coils of the Enciclopedia Mecánica. The seafoam green of the encyclopedia's case (a characteristic feature) was a key detail that was added just before finishing.

Happy birthday, Ángela Ruiz Robles! Thanks for getting education and technology off on a roll. 

Where this Doodle appeared

The Doodle Ángela Ruiz Robles’s 121st Birthday launched Mar 28, 2016

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