Lec-2: History of C++ | C++ Tutorials for Beginners | @GateSmashers

Summary

The lecture introduces the history, evolution, and uses of C++.

Origins

The instructor describes C++ as a side project by Danish computer scientist Bjarne Stroustrup while he was at Bell Labs. Around 1980, Stroustrup wanted to combine C’s efficiency with object-oriented features. The language began as “C with Classes” (also called “New C”) and was named C++ in 1983.

Why the Name C++

The “++” refers to incrementing C: C++ builds on C and adds features, including object-oriented programming.

Evolution

The lecture highlights the introduction of the Standard Template Library (STL) in 1998 and C++11 in 2011, which brought features such as auto and multithreading support. It also mentions C++23 as a later standard. The timeline is presented in broad terms.

Where C++ Is Used

The instructor gives examples across web browsers, operating systems, game engines, embedded systems, AI and machine-learning libraries such as TensorFlow and PyTorch, databases, financial and trading systems, cybersecurity tools such as OpenSSL, cloud computing, and high-performance computing.

Takeaway for Learners

C++ is presented as valuable for understanding systems and pursuing software-development roles. Knowledge of the language may also be useful in technical interviews.

Main speaker/source: Varun Sir, teaching in a Gate Smashers lecture.