Back to BASIC – The Most Consequential Programming Language in the History of Computing

BASIC, which stands for Beginner’s All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code, is one of the oldest and most influential programming languages in the history of computing. Developed in the 1960s by John Kemeny and Thomas Kurtz at Dartmouth College, BASIC was designed to be easy for beginners to learn and use.

BASIC quickly became popular in the emerging field of personal computing in the 1970s and 1980s, with versions of the language included with many early microcomputers. It was the first programming language for many aspiring programmers, providing a gateway into the world of software development.

Some of the most famous software and games of the early computing era were written in BASIC, including the original Microsoft BASIC interpreter. It was also used as a teaching tool in schools and universities, helping to inspire a new generation of programmers.

Though BASIC has been largely replaced by more advanced and specialized programming languages, its legacy lives on in the principles of simplicity and accessibility that it helped to establish. Many programmers credit BASIC as their first introduction to coding, shaping their careers and influencing the way they approach programming challenges.

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in BASIC as a nostalgic reminder of the early days of computing. Retro computing enthusiasts and hobbyists continue to develop new programs and games in the language, keeping the spirit of BASIC alive in the modern era.

As we look back on the history of computing, it is clear that BASIC was a foundational language that played a crucial role in shaping the software industry as we know it today. Its simplicity and accessibility opened the door to a new world of possibilities for aspiring programmers, setting the stage for the digital revolution that would follow.

So whether you are a seasoned developer or a beginner just starting out, it’s worth taking a moment to appreciate the lasting impact of BASIC on the world of computing. In many ways, going back to BASIC is a journey back to the roots of programming itself.