The Computer Revolution/Internet/Languages
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[edit] Languages
The computer does not see things the way we do. It reads the numbers and letters, in their own special codes, using 1's and 0's. To make one letter it takes around eight 1's and 0's in a special order for a computer to read. In order for us to make things with computers, whether it be software, such as a dvd program, or viewing a webpage; we have developed our own type of computer languge called HTML. HTML is a mix between the computer's language and our own to make things easier for us to understand. There are some advancements, starting at HTML, the basics of the language, then up to XML, java, and finally javascript.
[edit] Programming Languages History
The first programming language developed was FORTRAN in November 1954 which progressed to FORTRAN I in October of 1956, FORTRAN II in 1957 and a form of FORTRAN is still used today. There have been several programming languages that were created from scratch. Fortran was the first one, then there was: B-O in 1957 which transformed into the better known COBAL in 1958, LISP arrived in 1958, APL in 1960, Snobol in 1962, JOSS in 1964 which has morphed into M ANSI ISO, Forth in 1968, sh in 1969, Prolog in 1970, ML in 1973 and B in 1981. (ref#1). All other marketed languages can have their history traced back to one or more of these languages at some point in time.
[edit] HTML
HTML or "Hyper Text Markup Language" a programming language mostly used in the creation of Web Pages. A markup language simply denotes a form of programming in which there is text with extra information relating to that text. With HTML this is accomplished by using tags, which are commands in brackets like <>. Putting a B in the brackets before the text and a /b in brackets after the text will bold that text. HTML gained wide acceptance in the creation of web pages because it is simple to use and understand. Most of the web is primarily text based.
[edit] XML
XMLor "Extesible Markup Language" is an advancement over HTML. It has had a tremendous impact on the internet, surfing and the transmission of data. It allows two computers to communicate with each other. RSSor Really Simple Syndication allows for applications to update automatically when updated by the webmaster. This incredibly powerful feature has helped the expansion of blogs (web logs) which are frequently used as online diaries and vblogs (video web logs) which are blgs with a video component.
[edit] Java
Java is a programming language that allows interactive web pages. It is has its language taken from C and C++ but is much more simpler. With Java animation is also relatively easily done.
[edit] Javascript
Javascript adds an interactive perspective to regular html pages, this can be things like moving images. Javascript allows the user to interact soley with their browser without the need to consult the server. Things such as form validation can be completed on the users computer without the need to consult the server saving time and resources.