# Tom Christiansen

> American computer programmer

**Wikidata**: [Q19832677](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q19832677)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Christiansen)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/tom-christiansen

## Summary
Tom Christiansen is an American computer scientist and programmer known for his contributions to Perl programming language development and community engagement. He is particularly recognized for his work on Perl documentation and his role in shaping the language's ecosystem.

## Biography
- Born: 1963-02-13
- Nationality: United States
- Education: University of Wisconsin–Madison
- Known for: Perl programming language contributions and documentation
- Employer(s): Not explicitly listed in the provided data
- Field(s): Computer science

## Contributions
Tom Christiansen made significant contributions to the Perl programming language, particularly in documentation and community development. He is known for his work on Perl's documentation, which helped standardize and improve the language's usability. His efforts included writing comprehensive guides and tutorials, which played a crucial role in Perl's adoption and growth. Additionally, he received the White Camel award in 1999, recognizing his contributions to the Perl community.

## FAQs
### Q: What is Tom Christiansen known for?
A: Tom Christiansen is known for his contributions to the Perl programming language, particularly in documentation and community engagement. He played a key role in shaping Perl's ecosystem and improving its usability.

### Q: Where did Tom Christiansen study?
A: Tom Christiansen studied at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

### Q: What awards has Tom Christiansen received?
A: Tom Christiansen received the White Camel award in 1999, recognizing his contributions to the Perl community.

### Q: What is Tom Christiansen's role in the Perl community?
A: Tom Christiansen is recognized for his work on Perl documentation and his role in shaping the language's ecosystem, which helped standardize and improve Perl's usability.

### Q: What is Tom Christiansen's nationality?
A: Tom Christiansen is an American computer scientist.

## Why They Matter
Tom Christiansen's work on Perl documentation and community engagement was instrumental in the language's success. His comprehensive guides and tutorials helped standardize Perl, making it more accessible to developers. His contributions to the Perl community, including the White Camel award, highlight his significant impact on the field of computer science. Without his efforts, Perl's adoption and growth might have been slower or less standardized.

## Notable For
- Received the White Camel award in 1999 for contributions to the Perl community.
- Known for his work on Perl documentation, which improved the language's usability.
- Played a key role in shaping Perl's ecosystem and community engagement.
- Studied at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
- Recognized for his significant impact on the Perl programming language.

## Body
### Early Life and Education
Tom Christiansen was born on February 13, 1963. He earned his education at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he studied computer science.

### Career and Contributions
Christiansen's primary contributions to the field of computer science were in the area of Perl programming. He is best known for his work on Perl documentation, which helped standardize and improve the language's usability. His efforts included writing comprehensive guides and tutorials, which played a crucial role in Perl's adoption and growth.

### Awards and Recognition
In 1999, Christiansen received the White Camel award, recognizing his significant contributions to the Perl community. This award highlighted his impact on the programming language and his role in shaping its ecosystem.

### Legacy
Tom Christiansen's work on Perl documentation and community engagement left a lasting impact on the field of computer science. His contributions helped standardize Perl and made it more accessible to developers, contributing to its widespread adoption. His legacy continues to influence the Perl community and the broader field of programming languages.

## References

1. BnF authorities
2. Integrated Authority File
3. CiNii Research
4. Virtual International Authority File
5. Autoritats UB
6. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File