Comment by sershe

I wrote JavaScript before libraries, I remember when prototype.js came out and was a cool new thing and actually useful after "client side validation and snowflakes chasing mouse cursor" era. I think there was a short period when it was a positive development.

It seemed so at the time but I think it didn't work out... Why is interesting to speculate about... My pet theory that convenient frameworks lowering the barriers were part of the problem.

I think if at it's time JavaScript went the way of java applets and ActiveX controls (and yes I understand part of the reason these could be driven out is availability of JavaScript), web would be in a much better shape right now. 90% of the apps (banking, email, forums, travel, etc) and 100% of the pages would just be plain better. For the remainder you'd just install an app, something they nag you about anyway.