What is Java?

Java was originally developed as an implementation of a programming language that would compile and complete its directive functions regardless of platform and language version by James Gosling, a software developer employed by Sun Microsystems in June of 1991.

Gosling's main goals in developing the Java language were: implementing object oriented programming methodology containing built in support for the use of computer networks, the ability to execute remote sources of code in a secure fashion, and of course cross platform compatibility.

The history behind the naming of this programming language is a bit drab. Searching for a suitable name, James Gosling originally titled his language "Oak", after a tall oak tree that cast shade into his office. Eventually, "Oak" became "Green", and then "Java" was chosen from a list of random words (not currently copyrighted) that had been compiled.

The most appealing feature of Java is indubitable its platform independence, which means that any snippet of Java code, when compiled, will run in a similar fashion on any of the supported platforms. A programmer should be able to write a program one time, compile it one time, and then be able to execute it anywhere; holding true to the Sun Microsystems slogan, "Write Once, Run Anywhere."

Java is used in many facets, from the digital displays on your microwaves and refrigerators in your kitchen to the digital displays on your telephones, fax machines, and copiers in your office. It is used on the web (via applets) for entertainment, research, and other miscellaneous functions, like a website spell checker that will automatically go through your website, click each link, and spell check every page.

The downside to Java is that it is a bloated language (causing long buffer times), while still being simple and feature suppressed, leaving many programmers and users irate.