Wikipedia is a free, multilingual online encyclopedia that was launched in 2001. The website is maintained by a community of volunteers and allows users to create and edit entries on a wide range of topics. According to its co-founder Jimmy Wales, the goal of Wikipedia is to create a world in which every single person on the planet has access to free knowledge.
One of the unique features of Wikipedia is its collaborative editing model. Unlike traditional encyclopedias, which are typically written by experts and published by established publishing companies, Wikipedia allows anyone to contribute to or modify its articles. This open approach has led to some criticism and concerns about accuracy, but Wikipedia has implemented a number of measures to ensure the quality of its content, including a system of editorial oversight and strict guidelines for sourcing and citation.
Wikipedia has grown enormously since its launch, and now contains millions of articles in hundreds of languages. The site has become one of the world's most popular reference sources, and is often one of the first resources people turn to when looking for information on a particular topic.
In addition to its role as a reference source, Wikipedia has also had an impact on the way we think about information and knowledge. The site's emphasis on open collaboration and community-driven content creation has inspired other online communities and projects, and has contributed to the growing culture of open-source and open-access information.
Despite its success, Wikipedia has also faced a number of challenges and controversies over the years. In addition to concerns about accuracy and editorial oversight, the site has also faced criticism for its handling of sensitive content, such as articles related to controversial or illegal topics. Nonetheless, Wikipedia remains an important and influential part of the online landscape, and its impact on how we create, share, and access information will continue to be felt for years to come.
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