About
Kristen Nygaard was a Norwegian computer scientist, programming language pioneer, and politician. He is internationally recognized as the co-inventor of object-oriented programming and the Simula programming language, developed in collaboration with Ole-Johan Dahl during the 1960s. Nygaard and Dahl were jointly awarded the prestigious A. M. Turing Award in 2001 for their groundbreaking contributions to the field of computer science. Nygaard also had a career in politics.
Career Timeline
Co-invents Simula Language
Nygaard co-invents the Simula programming language.
Pioneers Object-Oriented Programming
Revolutionizes software development paradigms.
Becomes involved in politics
Nygaard starts to get more involved in local politics.
Receives Turing Award
Nygaard receives the Turing Award.
Death of Kristen Nygaard
Kristen Nygaard passes away, but his legacy of code lives on.
Remembered for Programming Innovation
Nygaard is remembered for the development of object-oriented programming.
Related Celebrities
Last updated: February 25, 2026