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Did you know that there have been at least sixteen attempts to build a compiler from Ruby to machine code? Why have there been so many? What were the ideas and context of each of these compilers? How are they similar and how are they different? What can we learn about compilers and Ruby from looking at them all? It turns out that we can trace the major advances in compiler research from the last couple of decades through Ruby!
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In the RubyConf 2021 presentation titled 'A History of Compiling Ruby,' Chris Seaton discusses the extensive history of Ruby compilers, highlighting the significant number of attempts to compile Ruby to machine code. While Ruby is primarily known as an interpreted language, Seaton reveals that there have been at least 25 different compiler attempts, showcasing the diversity of approaches and techniques in compiler design. Key points of the presentation include: - **Development of Ruby Compilers**: Seaton explains the evolution of Ruby compilers over the years, detailing how many have focused on just-in-time (JIT) compilation, adapting to Ruby's dynamic nature. - **Active and Historical Compilers**: The talk categorizes compilers into 'active' and 'historical,' emphasizing ongoing projects like JRuby, TruffleRuby, and YJIT from Shopify, while also mentioning discontinued efforts such as Rubinius and Topaz. - **Research and Learning**: Seaton argues that studying Ruby compilers can provide insights into broader compiler theory and practices, linking many compiler innovations to research conducted in the Ruby context. - **Compiler Architectures**: He explains various architectures used in compilers, such as ahead-of-time (AOT) and just-in-time (JIT), illustrating with examples from prominent compilers and their specific mechanisms. - **Future of Ruby Compilers**: The presentation also suggests avenues for future compiler research, including enhanced data structures for Ruby programs and polyglot approaches that might combine different languages' compilation processes. - **Practical Implications**: Seaton encourages developers to engage with Ruby compiler development, noting the rich opportunities for experimentation and innovation in this field. Ultimately, the talk is a comprehensive survey of the Ruby compilation landscape that highlights the richness of the topic both historically and in current research. Chris Seaton advocates for the preservation and study of Ruby compilers, indicating their importance in software development and compiler research.
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