How has HTML Evolved?

By Akash
on 01-12-2023 11:00 AM

1991 — HTML 1.0

Berners-Lee developed the first version of HTML in 1991. Yet, its release didn’t occur until 1993. In its first launch, there were only a handful of development options. These include creating basic pages with text content and links between pages.

1995 — HTML 2.0

In 1995, the second version of HTML saw the light. It added more elements and attributes to the prior mentioned. For instance, it included headings, lists, frames, inline images, and forms. HTML 2.0 also introduced the concept of style sheets. As a result, devs could control the look and feel of pages. It brought features still in use today, such as CSS and JavaScript support.

1996 — HTML 3.2

At this point, significant vendors started to collaborate in HTML development. By 1996, brands like Microsoft, Netscape, and IBM jumped into it. A year later, in 1997, HTML 3.2 appeared. Adding to its predecessor, it offered several still-relevant features, like tables and framesets. Further, it improved the support for style sheets and semantic richness. At this point, marquee text let coders create sophisticated designs with less code.

1999 — HTML 4.0

The release of HTML 4.0 took place in 1999. Among its biggest changes, a highlight was its accessibility improvement. It also added several elements to the list, like containers, objects, and buttons. At this stage, developers redesigned it to divide its structure and presentation. Plus, HTML 4.0 adopted the Universal Character Set as a character set.

1999 — HTML 4.01

Later, in 1999, HTML 4.01 emerged as a revision of its earlier version. In its context, it became one of the most widely used language versions. It supported more multimedia options and scripting languages. Plus, it took a significant step toward document internationalization. Here, the intention of making a truly-universal web was quite present.

2014 — HTML 5.0

Released in 2014, HTML 5.0 is the fifth and latest major version of the HTML standard. Its design relied on providing an improved platform for developers. Further, it enabled them to create more interactive and immersive experiences. This stage added audio and video playback features and advanced form controls. Among its features, it provided native Drag-and-Drop and Scalable Vector Graphics.

The added utilities included the simplified document declaration to . Other changes include handling inaccurate syntax errors and SQL databases and application caché. The latter allowed the storage of offline data through JavaScript interfaces. Following the latter, it also reduced the overlap between HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.