TCPL 2Ed - Page xi to xii - 1.50% Completion

[sorcerer_see]

PS I synthesize here in my own words what K&R teach, re-write all their example programs, character by character, solve all the C exercises they hand out. I comment to what K&R teach cursively. I do not copy-paste anything from the book! 

TCPL 2Ed - Page xi to xii - 1.50% Completion

C was the language created for and used on UNIX systems, for system as well as application programming. It was created by Dennis Ritchie.

He initially used  and developed B, which was started by Ken Thompson in 1969, which was, in it's turn based on BCLP, created by Martin Richards in 1967. BCPL was a simplified form of CPL., a language developed in the 60's, which was influenced by ALGOL60.  Probably we can go back even further, but the point I want to make is that, as we can see, every programming language tends to have had a precursor.  Programming is very much a community effort.

The UNIX OS, the compilers to translate C to machine language, the software that runs on it, as well as the software used to create the 1st Ed of K&R's The C Programming Language, are all written in C.

But also other systems are using C:
- IBM Systems/370
- Honeywell 6000
- Interdata 8/32
Etc...

Keep in mind the 1st Ed of K&R The C Programming Language was written in 1978!

C is not tied to any system in particular. If you want to program any system in particular, you need a compiler that is made for that system.

K&R state that the book is meant to teach C. It consists of an introduction to help learners to get going fast and then goes deeper into every feature of the language, and in the end of the book users can find a reference manual, that provides an index of all  syntax, functions & operations.

The book uses full programs throughout, to practice new insights. It:
- shows how the language is used effectively
- gives examples of useful algorithms
- it teaches good style

The book goes on to say that it is not meant as an introduction to programming. It assumes some basic knowledge of concepts like variables, assignment statements, loops and functions. That said, the book is not difficult and any beginner programmer who knows a little should be able to follow.

C
- is pleasant
- expressive
- versatile
- it wears well as one's experience with it grows (This statement is a trademark of K&R)

The writers add that the comments and corrections of friends and colleagues have greatly enhanced the book and go on mentioning and thanking a host of people.