  The application of evolution in the digital realm, with the goal of creating
artificial intelligence and artificial life, has a history as long as that of
the digital computer itself. We illustrate the intertwined history of these
ideas, starting with the early theoretical work of John von Neumann and the
pioneering experimental work of Nils Aall Barricelli. We argue that
evolutionary thinking and artificial life will continue to play an integral
role in the future development of the digital world.
