Why Is SQLite Coded In C

SQLite is implemented in C because it provides optimal performance, universal interoperability across platforms and languages, minimal runtime dependencies, and stability. C allows SQLite to be called from any programming language (Java, Swift, Objective-C, etc.) while maintaining speed comparable to assembly language. Object-oriented languages like C++ and Java lack this portability. While modern safe languages like Rust are interesting, they didn't exist during SQLite's first decade, introduce branch testing challenges, and handle out-of-memory situations differently than SQLite requires. The SQLite team prioritizes old, boring, well-understood languages over newer alternatives, though Rust remains a distant possibility if certain preconditions are met.