The document provides an introduction and history of the Java programming language. It discusses that Java was originally developed in 1991 by Sun Microsystems to be portable for consumer electronic devices. The document then summarizes the key capabilities of Java including being a general purpose language that can develop robust applications for desktops, servers, and mobile devices. It also outlines the Java language specifications, application programming interface containing predefined classes, and development tools available. Finally, it explains how Java's use of byte code and the Java Virtual Machine allows it to be highly portable across different operating systems.