Demystifying ECMAScript: Unveiling the Roots of JavaScript

Understanding the Core Concepts of Node.js

Welcome, everyone, to the inaugural section of our series, where we embark on a journey to unravel the mysteries of Node.js. In this first installment, our focus is on understanding the fundamental definition of Node.js. Before we delve into the specifics of a JavaScript runtime environment, let’s lay the groundwork by exploring essential concepts that form the foundation of our knowledge.

Understanding ECMAScript (ES)

Our journey begins with a term that forms the bedrock of JavaScript – ECMAScript. To comprehend its significance, let’s take a trip back in time to the early days of the internet.

A Brief Historical Odyssey

In 1993, the inaugural web browser with a user interface, Mosaic, was released. However, it lacked the dynamism we now associate with modern web pages. The lead developers of Mosaic founded Netscape in 1994, releasing the refined Netscape Navigator. Despite its popularity, it lacked the interactive capabilities we take for granted today.

To address this limitation, Netscape introduced a groundbreaking solution in 1995 – a new scripting language called JavaScript. Meanwhile, Microsoft debuted Internet Explorer, sparking a “browser war” with Netscape. Recognizing the transformative power of JavaScript, Microsoft reverse-engineered the Navigator interpreter, creating its scripting language named JScript.

The Challenge of Divergence

However, this led to a significant challenge. The differences between JavaScript and JScript made it arduous for developers to ensure their websites functioned seamlessly across both browsers. This divergence gave rise to common badges like “Best viewed in Netscape” or “Best viewed in Internet Explorer.”

The Birth of ECMAScript

In a bid to standardize JavaScript and foster consistency across browsers, Netscape submitted JavaScript to Ecma International in November 1996. What is Ecma International? It’s an industry association dedicated to standardizing information and communication systems. To this end, Ecma International established a committee, TC39, specifically responsible for JavaScript’s standardization.

ECMAScript vs. JavaScript

Now, let’s clarify a common point of confusion. While ECMAScript and JavaScript are technically distinct, they are often used interchangeably. The reason for this lies in trademark ownership. Oracle, which acquired Microsystems, owns the trademark for “JavaScript.” Consequently, the term “ECMAScript” refers to the official language standard, while “JavaScript” is the practical implementation building on ECMAScript.

Evolution through Versions

Over the years, multiple versions of ECMAScript have been released, with ES2015 (ES6) standing out as a milestone. ES2015 introduced modern JavaScript features and has become a prerequisite for contemporary JavaScript development.

The Takeaway

In essence, although ECMAScript and JavaScript have technical distinctions, for the purposes of this series, treat them as synonymous. Don’t get sidetracked by nuances; whenever you encounter “ECMAScript,” think of it as JavaScript.

In the upcoming posts, we will delve into the intricacies of Chrome’s V8 engine, marking the next step in our quest to master Node.js.