A cryptogram is a writing in code. Normally each sign used in this type of message corresponds to a letter of the alphabet. In this way, a number or an image is equivalent to a certain sign of the alphabet. If we look at the etymology of the term, cryptogram comes from the Greek, specifically from cryptos, which means hidden, and from grama, which means graphic representation. We must remember that when something is indecipherable or very difficult to understand, we say that it is something cryptic.
Solving a cryptogram always implies deciphering something that initially appears as an enigma. The knowledge that studies these code codes is cryptography.
The historical origin of the pictograms
At present the pictogram is used as an intellectual exercise for leisure. In this sense, it is similar to deciphering the meaning of a hieroglyph. However, this type of writing was used in the past to keep secret certain information that could not be known for some reason.
In this sense, cryptograms were effective for a persecuted religious group to keep their activities secret. Since ancient times, the military strategy of armies has resorted to this type of coded language to hide information from enemy armies.
The Voynich Manuscript is the most enigmatic cryptogram in existence.
It is estimated that this manuscript was written about 500 years ago. It is unknown who wrote it and, above all, the meaning of the alphabet used in its writing is completely unknown. The purpose of the drawings that appear on it is also unknown.
The name of the manuscript is due to the Lithuanian Wilfrid Voynich, a specialist in ancient manuscripts who acquired this book in 1912. Currently the original manuscript can be found in the Yale University Library, specifically in the Beinecke Library dedicated to rare books .
Since its discovery several cryptographers have tried to decipher its true meaning. Despite the efforts made, the Voynich MS remains a mystery.
Cryptography is an antecedent of computer language
Most of the operations we carry out over the Internet are protected by a complex mathematical encryption and decryption mechanism based on combinations of prime numbers. For this reason, in computer terminology we talk about encrypting keys and the discipline that deals with this activity is known as computer cryptography.
Photos: Fotolia-cosma / iuneWind
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