Structured Query Language, or SQL, is a powerful tool used to manage and manipulate data in relational databases. It is a language that allows users to create, modify, and query databases. In this article, we will explore the history of SQL, what it is, and its basic syntax.
History of SQL
SQL was first developed in the early 1970s by IBM researcher, Donald D. Chamberlin, and Raymond F. Boyce, both of whom worked on the development of the original relational model for databases. Originally called SEQUEL (Structured English Query Language), it was designed to provide a user-friendly language for non-technical users to interact with databases.
In 1979, the language was standardized by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), and in 1986 it was adopted as an international standard by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Since then, SQL has become the standard language for managing and querying relational databases.
What is SQL? SQL is a declarative language used to manage and manipulate data in relational databases. It is a language that allows users to create, modify, and query databases. SQL is a set-based language, which means that it operates on sets of rows instead of individual records. It is used in a wide range of applications, from managing small databases to enterprise-level data management systems.
SQL Syntax
SQL syntax is relatively easy to learn and understand, and it follows a similar structure to natural language. The basic syntax of SQL includes the following components:
- SELECT: The SELECT statement is used to retrieve data from one or more tables in a database. For example, to retrieve all data from a table called “contacts” the SELECT statement would be:
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SELECT * FROM contacts; |
- FROM: The FROM clause specifies the table or tables from which to retrieve data. In the example above, to retrieve data from a table called “contacts” the FROM clause is used.
- WHERE: The WHERE clause is used to filter data based on a specific condition. For example, to retrieve data from a table called “contacts” where the “contacts_category” column equals “friend” the WHERE clause would be:
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SELECT * FROM contacts WHERE contacts_category = "Friend"; |
SQL is a powerful tool used to manage and manipulate data in relational databases. With its easy-to-learn syntax and versatility, it has become an essential tool for data management in a wide range of applications. Understanding the history of SQL, what it is, and its basic syntax is a great starting point for anyone interested in learning this popular language.