In the Beginning, of JavaScript
In 1995, with the opportunity to squeeze it into the upcoming release of Navigator 2.0, developer Brendan Eich built the JavaScript language and its interpreter for Netscape, in ten days. It was originally called Mocha, then LiveScript, before settling on JavaScript. Netscape Navigator was the browser of the day, in part because it offered the ability to run Java applications inside it. Adding Mocha acted as a connection language between designers and programmers, offering new functionalities to Navigator, including the ability to change colors.
Sun’s Java platform is not affiliated to JavaScript scripting language, but there are connections. JavaScripts’s syntax is inspired by, and similar to Java and C++. Functionally, they are different. For example, Java applications have to be compiled, then loaded, while JavaScript is all live, loadable text.
“Java creates applications that run in a virtual machine or browser while JavaScript code is run on a browser only.” — https://www.java.com/en/download/help/java_javascript.html
The names are similar due to a marketing agreement between Sun and Netscape at the time. When Netscape 2.0 released with Java and JavaScript capabilities, MicroSoft reacted by developing and releasing Internet Explorer!
Brendan Eich followed JavaScript through Netscape and AOL and went on to found Mozilla Project, Foundation, and Corporation, who now own and maintain JavaScript (and FireFox). He is outspoken about his faith, and has caused harm by speaking out against the LGBT community. As JavaScript features prominently in 97% of websites today, it is inexcusable and incomprehensible that he would carry these ancient, harmful beliefs, and worse that he would use his power to influence these things rather than the good he has provided.
However, as I write this article, I am studying JavaScript as an employable skill, and writing this article through the Brave browser (https://brave.com/), which is another fascinating Brendan Eich invention, that also includes its own useful cryptocurrency, Basic Attention Token (BAT), serving to protect everyone from unsolicited advertising.
JavaScript is a connection language. It was conceived to connect left- and right- brained thinkers. Developers and Designers suddenly could keep the conversation alive while designing and developing together. It’s name comes from a compromise that may have otherwise prevented its long-reaching affect on humanity. While we are all entitled to our opinions, few of us are privy to a seat in history like Mr. Eich. I am glad to learn from his accomplishments as well as his mistakes. This language is universally adopted by 97% of the internet, so the comparing of Javascript to languages like Love, Religion, C++, or English is miracle enough, at least for me.