Ada is a programming language designed for reliability and maintainability, primarily used in systems where safety and security are critical, such as aerospace and defense. It was named after Ada Lovelace, who is often regarded as the first computer programmer. Developed in the 1980s, Ada emphasizes strong typing, modularity, and support for concurrent programming. The language is known for its readability and structured approach, making it easier for developers to understand and manage complex systems. Ada includes features like exception handling and tasking, which help in building robust applications. Its use in real-time systems showcases its effectiveness in high-stakes environments.