THE EVOLUTION
A Brief History of CSS.
CSS, also known as cascading style sheets, has been instrumental in shaping websites’ visual attraction and functionality during the dynamic field of web development and layout.
Over several years, CSS has evolved from its modest origins to become an essential element of modern web development.
The purpose of this article is to cover all the aspects of CSS, including its various versions, its interconnection with HTML, and a meticulous timeline detailing its evolution.
A BRIEF HISTORY OF CSS
CSS was introduced in the early 1990s to address the growing challenges within web design. during this period, the internet was still in its early stages, and designers faced barriers in phrases of controlling the visible elements of web pages.
At that time, web content material in particular consisted of textual content, and HTML (HyperText Markup Language) served as the fundamental way for organizing web files.
With the increasing demand for visually attractive websites, there arose a need for a language mainly dedicated to styling. This led to the creation of CSS.
Creation of CSS.
In 1994, Hakon Wium Lie, an outstanding figure in the field of web development from Norway, along with the Dutch programmer Bert Bos, delivered the initial CSS specification.
Their goal was to separate the presentation (CSS) from the content (HTML), thereby streamlining web development and enhancing its flexibility. HTML focuses on structuring web content material, whereas CSS is answerable for styling and formatting that content.
CSS VERSION HISTORY
CSS1:
The initial CSS specification, CSS1, was released in 1996, marking the beginning of the official CSS standards. While CSS1 enabled users to implement simple style modifications like altering text color, fonts, and backgrounds, it had certain limitations when it came to controlling the overall layout.
CSS2:
CSS2, released in 1998, brought about numerous enhancements that encompassed positioning, improved layout control, and incorporated media types designed for various devices.
CSS3:
CSS3 is a progressive development consisting of multiple modular specifications that are introduced gradually. This framework encompasses different web design elements, including animations, gradients, and flexible box layouts.
CSS4:
CSS4, currently under development, represents the next iteration of CSS. It is geared towards expanding the capabilities of web design by introducing enhancements such as responsive design, variable fonts, and improved grid systems.
CSS HISTORY TIMELINE
1994-1996
During the years 1994-1996, Hakon Wium Lie and Bert Bos introduced the first CSS specification known as CSS1. Its primary objective was to establish a clear separation between content and presentation.
1998
In 1998, the introduction of CSS2 expanded the capabilities of styling and layout, providing enhanced options in these areas.
2002
In 2002, CSS2.1 was introduced to address browser compatibility issues and enhance the functionality of CSS2 in a formal and knowledgeable context as an attempt to improve its overall performance within the general.
2011
In 2011, the implementation of CSS3 commenced, introducing a set of modular specifications that allowed for sophisticated styling and interactivity.
2020
The 2020s are witnessing the development of CSS4, which is expected to introduce a wide range of enhanced functionalities to the realm of web design while maintaining a formal tone suitable for knowledgeable readers.