The C++ Programming Language: Its Journey So Far

C++ is a programming language that communicates a set of instructions, otherwise known as code, to a computer to deliver outputs for human use. Common outputs created with C++ include gaming and photo/video editing software. This is because it is known for creating object-driven computer programs at a high-performance speed, which is what makes it ideal for graphics-based software.

turned-on MacBook Pro wit programming codes display

Its programming language counterpart C# is more appropriately used for web development due to its function-driven component, which makes it ideal for creating accessible and easy-to-navigate websites. C++ has, therefore, had a significant impact on the gaming industry, and we’ll look at its journey below.

The beginning of C++ Programming

Founded by Danish computer scientist Bjarne Stroustrup, C++ began early development in 1979 and was created as an extension of the C programming language. Having received a degree in Computer Science from the University of Cambridge in 1979, Stroustrup then moved to New Jersey to begin his career where he became a member of technical staff in the Computer Science Research Center in Bell Labs, Murray Hill. It was there where C++ was conceptualized and brought to life, with its first edition being released to the public in 1985.

Following its release in 1985, Stroustrup published a textbook on the C++ language which allowed other computer scientists to learn the language and develop computer software. Since then, the publication has been revised to keep up to date with technological advancements and is now in its fourth edition.

Rising to popularity

Following its introduction into society, C++ soon became a second language to computer scientists due to the additional features it offered when compared to other programming languages. Speedy performance, flexibility, and virtual functions are just some examples of the additional features which made it ideal for creating graphics-based software like gaming and photo editing.

In a period where the online landscape was on the rise, the timing of its release couldn’t have been more perfect and soon became instrumental in the graphics-based digital industry, namely, gaming, photo editing, video editing, and digital design. It’s for that reason that C++ is considered as one of the best programming languages in the world, appearing in the list of the top 5 programming languages.

Also designed to work alongside other programming languages rather than in place of them, this meant that computer scientists could continue to use the programming languages they already knew while developing their skills in C++.

Forming part of the wider technological culture in New Jersey

person sitting on gaming chair while playing video game

To this day, C++ is used for popular online programs; and with the online gaming industry accounting for the biggest share of market revenue, it certainly has played a huge contribution to society. While this is thanks to Stroustrup’s intelligence, gratitude must be shown toward New Jersey itself, the place where it was invented.

As a technological hub that’s home to the New Jersey Institute of Technology and is associated with the invention of the incandescent light bulb and C++, New Jersey also has a range of online games that have been developed using the C++ programming language. Using HTML5, nj online casinos are part of an extremely competitive industry thanks to their efficient performance and crisp graphics, all which are created using a programming language like C++. With various bonuses available for popular retro slot machine games, including free spins and jackpots, online casino players are spoilt for choice.

Unbeknown to players, this couldn’t be made possible without the intelligence of computer scientists who dedicate their lives, much like Stroustrup did, learning programming language and developing code for the creation of such digital software. For that reason, online casinos have been able to thrive and offer a modern service to their customers.

To that end

From its stages of early development in 1979, C++ has come a long way and several editions have since been released that offer new and improved features to computer scientists. Its success hasn’t been ignored either and in 2018, Stroustrup was announced as the 2018 winner of the Charles Stark Draper Prize for Engineering. This doesn’t come as a surprise given its contribution to the world of technology, whereby it has been instrumental in the development of graphics-based outputs.

You Might Also Like