Should C++ eliminate header files?

Sasha picture Sasha · Apr 15, 2009 · Viewed 13.1k times · Source

Many languages, such as Java, C#, do not separate declaration from implementation. C# has a concept of partial class, but implementation and declaration still remain in the same file.

Why doesn't C++ have the same model? Is it more practical to have header files?

I am referring to current and upcoming versions of C++ standard.

Answer

Gavin Miller picture Gavin Miller · Apr 15, 2009

Backwards Compatibility - Header files are not eliminated because it would break Backwards Compatibility.