C++ is a high-level programming language that was developed by Bjarne Stroustrup in the early 1980s. It is an extension of the C programming language and incorporates object-oriented features, allowing developers to create complex software systems more easily. C++ is widely used in various applications, including game development, system software, and real-time simulations. One of the key features of C++ is its ability to manage memory manually, giving programmers greater control over system resources. This flexibility makes it suitable for performance-critical applications. Additionally, C++ supports multiple programming paradigms, including procedural, object-oriented, and generic programming, making it a versatile choice for developers.