Lesson 1: Introduction to C++

Introduction to C++\n\nC++ is a statically typed, compiled language that builds on C by adding object‑oriented, generic, and functional features. It was created by Bjarne Stroustrup in the 1980s to combine efficient low‑level control with high‑level abstractions.\n\nIn modern software development, C++ powers everything from game engines and real‑time graphics to operating systems and high‑frequency trading platforms. Its zero‑overhead principle means you only pay for what you use.\n\n---\n\n## Why learn C++?\n- Direct memory manipulation for fine‑grained performance.\n- Powerful template system for generic programming.\n- Vast standard library and thriving ecosystem.\n- Full backward compatibility with C code.\n\n---\n\n## The classic "Hello, C++ world!" program\ncpp\n#include <iostream>\n\nint main() {\n std::cout << \"Hello, C++ world!\" << std::endl;\n return 0;\n}\n\n\nThis minimal program demonstrates:\n1. A preprocessor directive (#include <iostream>) that pulls in the I/O library.\n2. The main function, which is the entry point for every C++ executable.\n3. std::cout for writing to the standard output stream.\n4. return 0; signalling successful termination.\n\n> Tip: Compile with g++ -std=c++20 -Wall -Wextra hello.cpp -o hello to enable the latest language features and helpful warnings.\n\n---\n\n