What Is the History of the GIF?

The image format simultaneously evolved with the internet and continues to live on in our group texts, Slack messages, and Twitter threads.

By Donna Sarkar
Sep 18, 2023 6:00 PM
Close-up of a hand holding digital camera with abstract drawing and GIF inscription
(Credit:ra2 studio/Shutterstock)

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Oh, GIFs, how could we ever capture all of our human emotions without them? After all, nothing truly expresses our excitement on Friday night like a GIF of Beyoncé dancing. 

(Credit: GIPHY) Beyoncé Dancing

Of course, they’re also there for encapsulating tougher emotions light-heartedly, like our midday breakdowns that are conveniently represented by GIFs of an adorable baby or pet throwing a temper tantrum.

What Is a GIF?

The best part about these GIFs is the instant commentary and reactions that they provide without having to type out a single word. The graphics interchange format, which is what GIF stands for, is an easy way to communicate in the 21st century, making it a popular go-to worldwide.

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