# CHICKEN

> Scheme-based programming language implementation

**Wikidata**: [Q283456](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q283456)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chicken_(Scheme_implementation))  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/chicken

## Summary

CHICKEN is a software application that was established on July 20, 2000 .

## Summary
CHICKEN is a Scheme-based programming language implementation, released in 2000. It is a free, open-source, cross-platform compiler and interpreter for the Scheme programming language, known for its efficiency and compatibility with various platforms.

## Key Facts
- **Implementation of**: Scheme programming language
- **First released**: July 20, 2000
- **Latest stable version**: 5.4.0 (as of July 16, 2024)
- **License**: 3-clause BSD License
- **Operating system**: Cross-platform (Windows, macOS, Linux, etc.)
- **Typing discipline**: Dynamic, strong, and latent typing
- **File formats supported**: Scheme scripts, XML, JSON
- **Package managers**: Available on Arch Linux, Debian, Fedora, Gentoo, macOS (Homebrew), and more
- **Related modules**: Includes **matrico** (flonum matrix module) and **geiser-chicken** (Geiser support)

## FAQs
### Q: What is CHICKEN used for?
A: CHICKEN is used as a compiler and interpreter for the Scheme programming language, enabling efficient execution of Scheme code across multiple platforms.

### Q: Is CHICKEN free to use?
A: Yes, CHICKEN is free software released under the 3-clause BSD License, making it open-source and freely distributable.

### Q: What platforms does CHICKEN support?
A: CHICKEN is cross-platform and supports Windows, macOS, Linux, and other operating systems.

### Q: How do I install CHICKEN?
A: CHICKEN can be installed via package managers like Arch Linux, Debian, Fedora, Gentoo, or macOS (Homebrew), or downloaded directly from its official website.

### Q: What are the key features of CHICKEN?
A: Key features include dynamic, strong, and latent typing, support for Scheme scripts, XML, and JSON, and compatibility with various platforms.

## Why It Matters
CHICKEN plays a significant role in the Scheme programming language ecosystem by providing a robust, efficient implementation that supports multiple platforms. Its cross-platform compatibility and adherence to Scheme standards make it a valuable tool for developers. The project's open-source nature encourages community contributions, ensuring its continued development and improvement. CHICKEN's inclusion in major package managers and its support for various file formats further enhance its accessibility and utility. By offering a reliable and efficient Scheme environment, CHICKEN supports the creation of high-performance applications and educational tools, making it an essential resource for both professional developers and learners.

## Notable For
- **Cross-platform compatibility**: Works on Windows, macOS, Linux, and other operating systems.
- **Support for multiple file formats**: Handles Scheme scripts, XML, and JSON.
- **Integration with development tools**: Includes modules like **matrico** and **geiser-chicken** for enhanced functionality.
- **Active development**: Regular updates, with the latest stable version (5.4.0) released in July 2024.
- **Open-source licensing**: Released under the 3-clause BSD License, promoting free and open-source software.

## Body
### Overview
CHICKEN is a Scheme-based programming language implementation developed as a compiler and interpreter for the Scheme programming language. It was first released on July 20, 2000, and has since evolved with multiple stable versions, including 4.13.0, 5.0.0, 5.3.0, and the latest 5.4.0.

### Technical Specifications
- **Typing Discipline**: CHICKEN supports dynamic, strong, and latent typing, ensuring robust type safety and flexibility.
- **File Formats**: It can read and execute Scheme scripts, XML, and JSON files, making it versatile for different data processing needs.
- **Operating System**: CHICKEN is cross-platform, compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, and other operating systems.

### Distribution and Installation
- **Package Managers**: CHICKEN is available through various package managers, including Arch Linux, Debian, Fedora, Gentoo, macOS (Homebrew), and more.
- **Source Code**: The source code is available for download from the official website, with detailed installation instructions provided.

### Related Projects
- **Matrico**: A flonum matrix module for CHICKEN, extending its mathematical capabilities.
- **Geiser-Chicken**: Support for using CHICKEN within the Geiser environment, facilitating interactive development.

### Community and Development
- **Open-Source**: CHICKEN is released under the 3-clause BSD License, encouraging community contributions and open-source collaboration.
- **Active Updates**: The project receives regular updates, with the latest stable version (5.4.0) released on July 16, 2024.

### Usage and Applications
- **Educational Tools**: CHICKEN is used in educational settings to teach Scheme programming.
- **Application Development**: It supports the development of high-performance applications by providing an efficient Scheme environment.

## References

1. [Index of /releases](https://code.call-cc.org/releases/)
2. [NEWS](https://code.call-cc.org/releases/4.13.0/NEWS)
3. [5.3.0](https://code.call-cc.org/releases/5.3.0/NEWS-5.3.0)
4. [5.4.0](https://code.call-cc.org/releases/5.4.0/NEWS-5.4.0)
5. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
6. [Source](http://wiki.call-cc.org/man/5/Getting%20started)