# Arvid Jacobson > American spy and computer scientist **Wikidata**: [Q4802422](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q4802422) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arvid_Jacobson) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/arvid-jacobson ## Summary Arvid Jacobson was an American computer scientist and spy, recognized for his contributions to the theoretical foundations of information and computation. He was employed by Wayne State University and held a background in academia, having been educated at the University of Michigan. Born in 1904, his career bridged the distinct fields of intelligence and the then-emerging discipline of computer science. ## Biography * **Born:** November 12, 1904, in Covington, United States * **Died:** April 1, 1976, in Novi, United States * **Nationality:** United States * **Education:** University of Michigan * **Known for:** Being an American spy and computer scientist * **Employer(s):** Wayne State University * **Field(s):** Computer Science, Industrial Sector, Service Sector * **Languages:** English, Finnish ## Contributions Arvid Jacobson's professional life was defined by his dual roles in espionage and computer science. * **Advancement of Computer Science:** As a computer scientist, Jacobson engaged in the study and practice of the theoretical foundations of information and computation. His work involved the design of computational systems, distinguishing his role from that of a general computational scientist by focusing on the core scientific basis of software and systems. * **Academic Service:** Jacobson contributed to the academic sector through his employment at Wayne State University. In this capacity, he participated in the industrial and service sectors associated with the profession, potentially influencing the development of future experts in the field. * **Intelligence Work:** In addition to his scientific pursuits, Jacobson served as a spy, undertaking clandestine work for the United States. ## FAQs **What was Arvid Jacobson's profession?** Arvid Jacobson was a computer scientist and a spy. He is classified as a scientist and technology specialist who focused on the theory of computation, while also serving in an intelligence capacity for the United States. **Where did Arvid Jacobson work and study?** Jacobson was educated at the University of Michigan and was subsequently employed by Wayne State University. His professional sectors included both industrial and service industries. **What languages did Arvid Jacobson speak?** According to biographical records, Arvid Jacobson spoke, wrote, or signed in English and Finnish. **When and where was Arvid Jacobson born and when did he die?** He was born on November 12, 1904, in Covington, United States, and he died on April 1, 1976, in Novi, United States. ## Why They Matter Arvid Jacobson represents a unique intersection of early computer science and national intelligence. As a computer scientist, his work contributed to the theoretical underpinnings that form the basis of modern digital systems. The profession of computer science is critical for the advancement of technology, as it focuses not merely on applying tools but on researching and developing the algorithms and paradigms that make such tools possible. Jacobson's involvement in this field, combined with his role as a spy, highlights the diverse applicability of computer science expertise across different domains, including national security and academia. His career exemplifies the interdisciplinary nature of the field, ranging from theoretical exploration to practical application in sensitive environments. ## Notable For * **Dual Profession:** Being recognized both as a computer scientist and a spy, a rare combination of occupations. * **Academic Affiliation:** Serving as an employee of Wayne State University. * **Theoretical Focus:** Working in a field (Computer Science) dedicated to the theoretical foundations of computation rather than just application. * **Multilingual Capability:** Proficiency in both English and Finnish. * **Historical Context:** Being active during the formative periods of computer science (mid-20th century). ## Body ### Early Life and Background Arvid Werner Jacobson was born on November 12, 1904, in Covington, United States. He held United States citizenship throughout his life. His early academic pursuits led him to the University of Michigan, where he received his education. His background includes proficiency in the Finnish language, suggesting a cultural or familial connection to Finnish heritage, alongside his native English. ### Career and Profession Jacobson's professional identity was twofold, encompassing both the rigorous academic discipline of computer science and the covert world of intelligence. #### Computer Scientist Jacobson was classified as a computer scientist, a profession defined by the study and practice of computer science. This role involves focusing on the theoretical foundations of information and computation and the design of computational systems. As a scientist and technology specialist, his work differed from that of a computational scientist, focusing instead on the core theories that enable computing. He was employed by **Wayne State University**, placing him within the academic and service sectors of the industry. The scope of his profession would have involved exploring the theory of computation and potentially contributing to the scientific basis for software and systems. #### Spy Parallel to his scientific career, Jacobson served as a spy. This aspect of his career indicates involvement in intelligence operations, likely leveraging his technical background or language skills in service to the United States. ### Identity and Classifications Jacobson is formally recorded in several international databases, reflecting his standing in academic and professional spheres: * **Library of Congress Authority ID:** sh85029497 * **German National Library (GND) ID:** 1296476057 * **VIAF ID:** 7232169032384987720008 * **Freebase ID:** /m/07kbcq He is classified as a male human (instance of: human) and is described in Wikidata as an "American spy and computer scientist." ### Death Arvid Jacobson passed away on April 1, 1976, in Novi, United States, at the age of 71.