Evolution of Programming Languages
Programming languages have evolved significantly over the years, with each generation building upon the previous one. Here's a brief overview: 1. First Generation (1950s): Machine language (binary code) - directly executed by computers. 2. Second Generation (1950s-1960s): Assembly languages (symbolic codes) - translated to machine language using assemblers. 3. Third Generation (1960s-1970s): High-level languages (HLLs) - compiled or interpreted, abstracted from machine details (e.g., COBOL, FORTRAN, C). 4. Fourth Generation (1970s-1980s): Very high-level languages (VHLLs) - focused on specific applications, ease of use, and rapid development (e.g., SQL, Prolog). 5. Fifth Generation (1980s-1990s): Visual programming languages (VPLs) - used visual representations, drag-and-drop interfaces, and automation (e.g., Visual Basic, Delphi). 6. Sixth Generation (1990s-present): Multiparadigm languages - combined different programming paradigms (e.g., object-oriented, functional, scrip