# Paradox

> relational database management system

**Wikidata**: [Q1779923](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1779923)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paradox_(database))  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/paradox

## Summary
Paradox is a relational database management system (RDBMS) developed by Alludo, first released in 1985. It was notable for its user-friendly interface and support for both relational and object-oriented database features, making it popular among developers and businesses for data management.

## Key Facts
- **Type**: Relational database management system (RDBMS)
- **Developer**: Alludo (later acquired by Corel and Borland)
- **Inception**: 1985
- **Latest version**: 8 (released as Corel Paradox 8 or Borland Paradox)
- **Aliases**: Corel Paradox, Borland Paradox, ObjectPAL
- **Influenced by**: dBase
- **File formats**: Supports Paradox Database Table formats (versions 3, 4, 5, 7) and Paradox Lock files
- **License**: End-user license agreement (EULA)
- **Website**: [Corel's Italian site](http://www.corel.com/it/) (archived reference)

## FAQs
### Q: What was Paradox primarily used for?
A: Paradox was used for data management, database development, and application development, particularly in business and enterprise environments. Its intuitive interface made it accessible to non-technical users.

### Q: Who developed Paradox, and when was it released?
A: Paradox was developed by Alludo, with the first version released in 1985. It later became associated with Corel and Borland after acquisitions.

### Q: What file formats did Paradox support?
A: Paradox supported multiple file formats, including Paradox Database Table (versions 3, 4, 5, 7), Paradox Database Memo Field, and Paradox Lock files.

### Q: How did Paradox differ from other RDBMS systems?
A: Paradox stood out for its ease of use, support for both relational and object-oriented features, and compatibility with dBase, making it a versatile tool for developers.

### Q: Is Paradox still available today?
A: Yes, Paradox remains available, though its development has been discontinued. It is still used in legacy systems and supported through third-party tools.

## Why It Matters
Paradox played a significant role in the evolution of database management systems by combining relational and object-oriented features in a user-friendly package. Its intuitive interface and compatibility with dBase made it accessible to a broader audience, including businesses and developers. Despite being discontinued, Paradox remains relevant in legacy systems and continues to be supported by third-party tools. Its influence on later database systems highlights its importance in shaping modern data management practices.

## Notable For
- **User-friendly interface**: Made database management accessible to non-technical users.
- **Support for multiple file formats**: Included versions 3, 4, 5, and 7 of Paradox Database Table formats.
- **Compatibility with dBase**: Inherited features from dBase, enhancing its versatility.
- **Legacy support**: Continues to be used in legacy systems and supported by third-party tools.
- **Object-oriented features**: Combined relational and object-oriented database capabilities.

## Body
### Overview
Paradox is a relational database management system (RDBMS) developed by Alludo, first released in 1985. It was designed to be user-friendly, supporting both relational and object-oriented database features. Over time, it was acquired by Corel and later Borland, leading to versions like Corel Paradox 8 and Borland Paradox.

### Development and History
- **Inception**: 1985
- **Developer**: Alludo
- **Acquisitions**: Later owned by Corel and Borland
- **Latest version**: 8 (released as Corel Paradox 8 or Borland Paradox)

### Features and Functionality
- **File formats**: Supports Paradox Database Table (versions 3, 4, 5, 7), Paradox Database Memo Field, and Paradox Lock files.
- **Compatibility**: Influenced by dBase, inheriting features that enhanced its usability.
- **Interface**: Known for its intuitive design, making it accessible to non-technical users.

### Significance
- **User accessibility**: Bridged the gap between technical and non-technical users in database management.
- **Legacy impact**: Continues to be used in legacy systems and supported by third-party tools.
- **Innovation**: Combined relational and object-oriented features, influencing later database systems.

### Availability and Support
- **Status**: Development discontinued, but still available for legacy use.
- **Support**: Third-party tools and community support maintain its functionality.

## References

1. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
2. YSO-Wikidata mapping project