  Databases, collections of related data, are as old as the written word. A
database can be anything from a homemaker's metal recipe file to a
sophisticated data warehouse. Yet today, when we think of a database we
invariably think of computerized data and their DBMSs (database management
systems). How did we go from organizing our data in a simple metal filing box
or cabinet to storing our data in a sophisticated computerized database? How
did the computerized database evolve?
  This paper defines what we mean by a database. It traces the evolution of the
database, from its start as a non-computerized set of related data, to the, now
standard, computerized RDBMS (relational database management system). Early
computerized storage methods are reviewed including both the ISAM (Indexed
Sequential Access Method) and VSAM (Virtual Storage Access Method) storage
methods. Early database models are explored including the network and
hierarchical database models. Eventually, the relational, object-relational and
object-oriented databases models are discussed. An appendix of diagrams,
including hierarchical occurrence tree, network schema, ER (entity
relationship) and UML (unified modeling language) diagrams, is included to
support the text.
  This paper concludes with an exploration of current and future trends in DBMS
development. It discusses the factors affecting these trends. It delves into
the relationship between DBMSs and the increasingly popular object-oriented
development methodologies. Finally, it speculates on the future of the DBMS.
