This paper presents a tutorial overview of the past, present, and future of microprocessors and describes the key elements of their structure and operation. It is intended to serve as a technical introduction to the rapidly expanding field of microprocessor and microcomputer technology and to provide an overview of what these elements are, what they can do, and how they do it. The origin and evolution as well as the basic principles of operation are discussed. Several different types of microprocessor are considered and examples of their application in the solution of real-world problems are given.