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RFC 1866: HTML 2.0: The common language of the early web

Summary

RFC 1866 documents HTML 2.0 as an interoperable format for linked documents and forms. RFC 1866 was superseded by RFC 2854. Open document formats lower the entry costs for publishing and tools.

Ideas

  • Markup describes structure instead of screen coordinates.
  • Hyperlinks connect documents across independent servers.
  • Forms send user input to applications.

Insights

  • Semantics allow use on very different devices.

Remarks

  • RFC 1866 has historic status and should not be used as a current implementation guideline.

Recommendations

  • Use the living HTML standard today.
  • Keep semantic elements and progressive enhancement.

References

Read the RFC at the RFC Editor

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