BASIC stands for Beginner’s All-Purpose Symbolic Instruction Code. It is a programming language that was developed in the mid-1960s to provide easy computer access to non-science students. Initially designed by John G. Kemeny and Thomas E. Kurtz at Dartmouth College, BASIC became one of the most widespread programming languages in the early days of personal computing.
Historical Context
BASIC was conceived in a time when computer systems were primarily the domain of scientists and mathematicians. The developers aimed to create a language that was easy to use for people with minimal formal training in mathematics or computer science. The language’s simplicity and ability to execute programs interactively were key to its widespread adoption in educational institutions and later in personal computers.
Key Developments
- 1964: BASIC was first introduced at Dartmouth College.
- 1970s-1980s: Widely adopted on early personal computers like the Apple II, Commodore 64, and IBM PC.
- 1991: Introduction of Visual Basic by Microsoft, bringing GUI-based development to the language.
Types of BASIC
Dartmouth BASIC
The original version created at Dartmouth College, used primarily for educational purposes on time-sharing systems.
Microsoft BASIC
Developed by Microsoft, this variant played a significant role in the software ecosystem of early personal computers, including the Altair 8800 and IBM PC.
Visual Basic
A modern iteration introduced by Microsoft that allows for event-driven programming and the creation of graphical user interfaces.
BASIC Syntax and Structure
Simple Program Example
110 PRINT "HELLO, WORLD!"
220 END
Explanation
10and20are line numbers, fundamental in BASIC to indicate the sequence of program execution.PRINTis a command that outputs text to the screen.ENDdenotes the termination of the program.
Applications and Use Cases
BASIC was initially designed for educational purposes but rapidly found a broader audience:
- Educational Tools: Used extensively in teaching programming fundamentals.
- Home Computers: Popular on early personal computers as a built-in language, allowing users to write their own programs.
- Commercial Software: Used for developing early business applications, games, and utilities.
Comparisons and Related Terms
Comparisons with Other Languages
- FORTRAN and COBOL: Earlier languages used in scientific and business applications respectively; less user-friendly.
- Pascal: A later language designed for teaching programming.
- Python: A modern beginner-friendly language that inherits BASIC’s philosophy of simplicity.
Related Terms
- Interpreter: BASIC programs are typically interpreted, not compiled.
- Line Numbers: An artifact of early BASIC, indicative of its origin in simpler, non-structured programming.
FAQs
Why was BASIC important?
Why did BASIC use line numbers?
What is Visual Basic?
References
- Kemeny, John G., and Thomas E. Kurtz. “Dartmouth Time Sharing System.” Dartmouth College, 1964.
- “The History of BASIC: How Bill Gates and Paul Allen Built Microsoft.” Computer History Museum.
- Microsoft Visual Basic Documentation. Microsoft.
Summary
BASIC is a pioneering programming language that democratized computer programming. From its academic origins, it evolved to become a cornerstone of early personal computing. With its simple syntax and interactive environment, BASIC was instrumental in introducing programming to a broader audience. Modern derivatives like Visual Basic continue to honor its legacy of accessibility and simplicity.
