The correct answer is C. Herman Hollerith. Detailed Explanation:

1. Historical Context: The invention of the census machine is closely tied to the need for efficient data processing, particularly for the U.S. Census. In the late 19th century, the U.S. Census Bureau faced a significant challenge: the 1880 census took eight years to process due to the sheer volume of data collected. This delay highlighted the need for a more efficient method of data collection and analysis.
2. Herman Hollerith's Contribution: Herman Hollerith, an American inventor, developed a mechanical tabulator that used punched cards to record data. His system allowed for the automatic sorting and counting of census data, drastically reducing the time required to process the census results. In 1890, his machine was used for the first time in a national census, and it successfully processed the data in just one year. This innovation laid the groundwork for modern data processing and is considered a pivotal moment in the history of computing.
3. The Mechanism: Hollerith's machine worked by using punched cards, where holes punched in specific locations represented different data points (e.g., age, gender, occupation). The machine would read these cards and tally the results automatically. This method was revolutionary because it eliminated much of the manual labor involved in data processing.
4. Legacy: Hollerith's company eventually became part of IBM (International Business Machines Corporation), which played a significant role in the development of computing technology throughout the 20th century. His work is often credited as a precursor to modern computing and data processing systems.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:

• A. Blaise Pascal: Blaise Pascal was a French mathematician and philosopher known for his contributions to probability theory and for inventing the Pascaline, an early mechanical calculator. However, he did not invent a census machine or any device specifically for processing census data.
• B. Gottfried Von Leibnitz: Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz was a German polymath who made significant contributions to mathematics, philosophy, and science. He is known for developing calculus independently of Isaac Newton and for inventing the step reckoner, an early calculating machine. Like Pascal, he did not create a census machine.
• D. Joseph Marie Jacquard: Joseph Marie Jacquard was a French weaver and inventor known for the Jacquard loom, which used punched cards to control the weaving of patterns in textiles. While his invention influenced later computing technologies, he did not invent a machine specifically for census data processing.

Summary of Key Points:

• Herman Hollerith invented the census machine that used punched cards for data processing.
• His machine significantly reduced the time required to process census data, completing the 1890 U.S. Census in just one year.
• Hollerith's innovations laid the foundation for modern data processing and computing.
• Other notable figures like Pascal, Leibnitz, and Jacquard contributed to early computing concepts but did not create a census machine.

This thorough understanding of the historical context and contributions of Herman Hollerith will help you remember why he is the correct answer regarding the invention of the census machine.