The technology behind the metaverse has its origins in the darkest days of the Cold War. This ‘Military metaverse’ gave birth to the Internet, transforming warfare - and, a generation later, online gaming. Featuring Michael Zyda. JCR Licklider – “Lick” to his friends and colleagues – is little-known but absolutely an essential figure in the development of modern computing.Ivan Sutherland is probably the most influential computer scientist, full stop.Here’s a video of Ivan Sutherland giving a demo of ‘Sketchpad’ the first interactive computer drawing program.Bob Taylor is largely unknown outside the small community of individuals involved with the early Internet – but his work is profoundly influential.Here’s an interview with Bob Taylor, talking about the origins of the InternetHere’s an excellent documentary on the recreation of the “Battle of 73 Easting” – the first tank battle captured in real-time, then simulated endlessly using SIMNET. 1968: When the World Began, 3D graphics, A Brief History of the Metaverse, Bob Taylor, DARPA, Internet, IPTO, Ivan Sutherland, JCR Licklider, metaverse, Mike Zyda, military, SIMNET, simulation, SKETCHPAD, VR For more information about this and all our other 'The Next Billion Seconds" content, please check out https://nextbillionseconds.com This podcast is sponsored by the Digital Skills Organisation. The DSO is championing an employer-led, skills-based approach to digital literacy. Our offering is designed to support future-proofing the country, growing jobs, supporting our economic growth and ensuring that Australia remains a global leader in digital. If we are to equip our workforce with the skills to meet a rapidly changing, technological future, we need a new approach. We’re working in collaboration with employers, trainers and employees. Their involvement is vital. We believe it’s a better way to create consistent journey pathways and build relevant digital skills. We define the problem this way - digital skills training must: Create value both internally and externally.Improve customer experience.Build operational capabilities. To deliver on these objectives we need to strengthen Australia’s digital workforce. It’s that simple. DSO - Digitally Upskilling Australia To find out more, visit the DSO website: https://digitalskillsorg.com.au Mark Pesce - The Next Billion Seconds is produced by Ampel - visit https://ampel.com.au to find out what Ampel could do for you! If you are interested in sponsoring The Next Billion Seconds podcast, reach out to our Director of Media and Partnerships Lauren Deighton at [email protected] If you enjoyed this show, please leave a rating and/or review on your podcast platform.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.