Introduction

Programming languages are the backbone of the digital

world. Over the decades, they have evolved from
simple, low-level instructions to powerful, high-level
languages that can handle complex tasks with ease.
One of the earliest and most influential languages was
BASIC (Beginner’s All-purpose Symbolic Instruction
Code), developed to introduce beginners to
programming. It marked the beginning of a new era in
computing, making programming accessible to a wider
audience.
As technology advanced, the need for more versatile
and efficient programming languages grew. This led to
the development of Python, a modern, high-level
programming language known for its simplicity,
readability, and vast range of applications. Today,
Python is used in fields like web development, data
science, artificial intelligence, automation, and more.
This project explores the fascinating journey from
BASIC to Python. It highlights the technological
advancements in hardware, software, and operating
systems, as well as the key individuals who played a
crucial role in driving this evolution. By understanding
this journey, we gain insight into how far computing
has come—and where it might go next.
Updation Taking Place In:

1. Hardware Updation
Then (BASIC Era):
• Used mainframes, minicomputers, and early
personal computers like the IBM PC.
• Hardware was bulky, expensive, and had limited
memory (measured in kilobytes).
• CPU speeds were in the kilohertz (KHz) to
megahertz (MHz) range.
• Input was given through punch cards, tape
readers, or basic keyboards.
Now (Python Era):
• Use of high-speed multi-core processors, GPUs,
and solid-state drives (SSD).
• Devices are compact and powerful: laptops,
smartphones, and cloud servers.
• Hardware supports artificial intelligence, machine
learning, and real-time computing.
• Widespread use of Internet of Things (IoT) devices
and edge computing.
Key Highlights of Hardware Evolution:
 • Transition from vacuum tubes → transistors →
integrated circuits → microprocessors.
• Moore’s Law driving consistent improvements in
power and efficiency.
• Cloud computing and serverless architecture now
support scalable development.
2. Software Updation
Then (BASIC Era):
• BASIC was interpreted directly by the machine,
with no graphical interface.
• Programs were simple, command-line based, and
manually typed.
• No modular or reusable code; limited error
handling and functionality.
Now (Python Era):
• Python is high-level, interpreted, object-oriented,
and supports multiple paradigms.
• Offers thousands of libraries and frameworks
(NumPy, Pandas, Django, TensorFlow).
• Developers use modern IDEs like VS Code,
PyCharm, and Jupyter Notebook.
 • Supports GUI development, web development,
automation, and AI/ML.
Key Highlights of Software Evolution:
• Movement from low-level to high-level
programming.
• Rise of open-source community and shared
development.
• Use of package managers (like pip) and virtual
environments for clean setups.
3. Operating System Updation
Then (BASIC Era):
• Early operating systems included MS-DOS and
CP/M.
• Command-line based; no GUI; limited multitasking
and no networking support.
• Programs had to be run manually with minimal
error support.
Now (Python Era):
• Operating systems like Windows 11, macOS, and
Linux support Python natively.
• Provide rich GUI environments, multitasking,
networking, and security.
 • Support for virtualization (VMware, VirtualBox)
and containers (Docker).
Key Highlights of OS Evolution:
• Growth of user-friendly, multi-functional OS with
security features.
• Linux became a major platform for developers and
servers.
• Mobile operating systems (like Android) also
support Python apps via terminals and tools like
Pydroid.

4. People Behind the Updations

Key Contributors in BASIC Era:
• John G. Kemeny and Thomas E. Kurtz: Invented
BASIC in 1964.
• Bill Gates and Paul Allen: Developed Altair BASIC
and co-founded Microsoft.
Key Contributors in Python Era:
• Guido van Rossum: Created Python in 1991 in the
Netherlands.
• Python Software Foundation (PSF): Manages the
growth and integrity of Python.
 • Open-source community: Thousands of
developers contribute to Python’s tools and
libraries.
Other Influential Figures in Computing:
• Dennis Ritchie: Creator of C programming
language.
• Linus Torvalds: Developed Linux, a major open-
source operating system.
• James Gosling: Known as the father of Java.

Conclusion
The transition from BASIC to Python reflects the
evolution of technology and thinking in the
programming world. What began as simple, text-based
code has evolved into powerful, flexible programming
environments used for AI, automation, and beyond.
This progress has been made possible through
continuous updates in hardware, software, operating
systems, and the dedicated efforts of visionary
pioneers.
Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages of the Evolution from BASIC to Python

1. Ease of Learning and Use
Python has a very clean and readable syntax,
which makes it ideal for beginners and
professionals alike. Compared to BASIC, Python
code is closer to plain English.
2. Vast Library and Framework Support
With libraries like NumPy, Pandas, Matplotlib,
Django, Flask, and TensorFlow, Python allows quick
and efficient development in fields like data
science, web development, and AI.
3. Cross-Platform Compatibility
Python runs seamlessly on Windows, macOS,
Linux, and even embedded systems like Raspberry
Pi.
4. Strong Community and Open-Source Ecosystem
An active global community contributes to regular
updates, rich documentation, and open-source
packages that simplify development.
5. Rapid Development and Prototyping
Python’s dynamic typing and interpreted nature
 allow quick idea-to-prototype transitions,
especially useful in startups and research.
6. Versatility and Use in Emerging Technologies
Python is widely used in AI, machine learning,
blockchain, IoT, robotics, automation, and
cybersecurity.
7. Integration Capabilities
Python integrates well with other languages like C,
C++, Java, and tools like SQL databases, APIs, and
even Excel.
8. Support for Multiple Paradigms
Python supports object-oriented, procedural, and
functional programming styles, allowing flexibility
in program design.
9. Educational Value
Python is now taught in schools and universities as
the first programming language due to its
simplicity and industry relevance.
10. Wide Job Opportunities
Python developers are in high demand across
various industries, offering strong career
prospects.
Disadvantages of the Evolution from BASIC to Python
1. Slower Execution Speed
Since Python is an interpreted language, it runs
slower than compiled languages like C or Java.
2. Not Suitable for Low-Level Programming
Python cannot be used for writing low-level system
programs or real-time embedded systems where
performance is critical.
3. Memory Intensive
Python applications tend to use more memory,
making them less suitable for memory-constrained
devices.
4. Dynamic Typing Can Lead to Errors
Variables are declared without type, which may
lead to type-related bugs during runtime.
5. Mobile Development Limitations
Python is rarely used in native Android or iOS app
development due to the lack of mature mobile
frameworks.
6. Weak in Multithreading
Due to the Global Interpreter Lock (GIL), Python
threads don’t execute in true parallel in a multi-
core CPU, limiting performance in certain
applications.
 7. Dependency Management Challenges
Managing multiple third-party libraries can
sometimes cause version conflicts and
compatibility issues.
8. Graphics and Game Development Constraints
While possible, Python is not commonly used in
performance-intensive 3D games or complex
graphics development.

Conclusion
The evolution from BASIC to Python represents a
significant leap in usability, functionality, and modern
applicability. While Python offers immense power and
flexibility, it’s important to be aware of its limitations.
Choosing the right language always depends on the
project’s goals, system requirements, and resource
availability. Overall, Python’s benefits far outweigh its
disadvantages in most modern computing scenarios.
Bibliography
1. Python Official Documentation
https://docs.python.org
2. History of BASIC Programming Language
https://www.britannica.com/technology/BASIC-
computer-language
3. Python Software Foundation
https://www.python.org/psf/
4. Computer History Museum
https://computerhistory.org/
5. W3Schools – Python Tutorial
https://www.w3schools.com/python/
6. GeeksforGeeks – Programming Evolution
https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/history-of-
programming-languages/
7. Wikipedia Articles
o BASIC (programming language)
o Python (programming language)
o Operating Systems Evolution