When SIGAPL was founded, the only array-based programming language in existence was APL with the special symbols developed by Ken Iverson. Indeed, APL versions were available on mainframe computers and IBM Selectric typewriters, with a special ball for the APL symbols, were used as terminals. Things have changed considerably, but it seems to me that it was only yesterday! Different Array Programming Languages have been developed since, which are all descendants of the original APL. Needless to say, the original APL has had a significant influence. There is no doubt in my mind that this influence still remains important. In fact, I believe that APL was a quantum leap in the development of programming languages.
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