Ralph Land, Pioneer of World's First Business Computer, Dies at 97
Ralph Land, a key figure in the development and commercialization of the Lyons Electronic Office (Leo), the world's first business computer in the 1950s, has passed away at the age of 97. Alongside his twin brother, Frank, Land was instrumental in this technological breakthrough. Following his work on Leo, he dedicated his career to developing markets for computers and photocopiers, initially in the UK and later internationally. From 1964, Land successfully secured business from government and state enterprises in the Soviet bloc for companies such as English Electric Leo Marconi, ICL, and Rank Xerox. After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the 1990s, he continued to be active as a leader of trade councils, an adviser to firms and government, and a commentator on post-Soviet Russia and Eastern Europe. Land was recognized for his contributions, being appointed OBE in 1985 and advanced to CBE in 1995. He remained engaged in public life into his 80s, serving as deputy chairman of the Westminster Foundation ... 
