How did you find the documentation to compile stuff in the correct version, to avoid compilation failed?
If you want to learn programming in C I recommend you install some version of Linux, even in a virtual machine.
You get in touch with the real tools at the low level, and everything is very easy to obtain just using yout package managing software. (yum or apt-get, very easy to use even from the terminal)
If you install any Linux, let's say Debian, then be sure to install development packages (gcc, etc.)
There are linux man pages for every standard function in C, so that also helps.
I would also suggest using a linux distro to learn Python.
Actually, I would suggest a linux box for any kind of programming learning.
There are C tutorials all around the web anyway.
If you happen to install some linux and have problems compiling C in there, just ask here.
EDIT: No matter your OS, you can easily and legally install a virtual machine with linux that would run from your desktop as if it were just another program. No pirating required at all, everything is free (but I know this may be a letdown for the average temp user).
Just get
VirtualBox and a
Linux Distro CD image, and begin with the fun!