January 29, 1997

PostgreSQL 6.0 released

PostgreSQL 6.0 shipped on January 29, 1997 — adopting the PostgreSQL name and SQLStructured Query Language — the standard language for querying relational databases. support atop Berkeley's POSTGRES research codebase.

What it was for

PostgreSQLPostgreSQL is an open-source relational databaseA database structured as tables with rows and columns, queried with SQL — the dominant model for business data. with strong SQLStructured Query Language — the standard language for querying relational databases., JSONJavaScript Object Notation — a lightweight text format for structured data exchange on the web., and extension support — used for SaaSSoftware as a Service — applications delivered over the internet on a subscription basis. backends, geospatial (PostGIS), and analytics. TeamsMicrosoft Teams — chat, video calls, and Office integration for workplace collaboration. pick it for ACIDAtomicity, consistency, isolation, durability — properties guaranteeing reliable database transactions. guarantees, complex queries, and no vendor lock-in. Example: a Rails or Django app with migrations, foreign keys, and full-text search on one Postgres instance.

Why it's here

PostgreSQL carried Berkeley POSTGRES into production as a mainstream open-source RDBMS.

Why it mattered

It became the default 'serious' open-source SQLStructured Query Language — the standard language for querying relational databases. database for startups and enterprises alike.

What it solved

Postgres95 needed a durable name and version line as SQLStructured Query Language — the standard language for querying relational databases. features matured beyond research prototypes.

Media

  • PostgreSQL
    ImagePostgreSQL

    Daniel Lundin, BSD, via Wikimedia Commons

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