Who invented e-mail? That’s a bit like asking, “Who invented the internet?” Even those with intimate knowledge of its creation can’t agree on the moment it actually came to life. But amid all the bluster over the origins of e-mail, one man holds a claim that resonates well beyond the rest.

Ray Tomlinson is the reason your e-mail address includes an ‘@’ symbol.

The first message traveled between the two ARPAnet machines operated by BBN. But Tomlinson doesn’t remember what he sent.