Introduction to Databases: From Biological to Spatio-Temporal

Introduced forty years ago, relational databases proved unusually succe— ful and durable. However, relational database systems were not designed for modern applications and computers. As a result, specialized database systems now proliferate trying to capture various pieces of the database market. Database research is pulled into different directions, and speci— ized database conferences are created. Yet the current chaos in databases is likely only temporary because every technology, inclu...