Microsoft Excel, a spreadsheet program, has its roots in an earlier spreadsheet application called "Multiplan." Multiplan was created by Microsoft and was initially released for computers running the CP/M operating system in 1982. Later, versions of Multiplan were developed for other operating systems, including MS-DOS and Microsoft Xenix.

However, Microsoft Excel, as it is known today, evolved from the success of Multiplan and was first released in 1985 for the Apple Macintosh. The initial version of Excel for Macintosh was well-received, and it demonstrated Microsoft's commitment to graphical user interfaces and the emerging personal computer market.

The first version of Microsoft Excel for Windows was released in 1987 as part of Microsoft's strategy to establish its presence in the Windows environment. Excel's integration with Windows helped it gain popularity, and it eventually became the dominant spreadsheet software on the Windows platform.

Over the years, Microsoft Excel has undergone numerous updates and enhancements, introducing new features, functions, and improvements in usability. It has become a standard tool for businesses, educational institutions, and individuals for tasks such as data analysis, financial modeling, and reporting.

Microsoft Excel has played a crucial role in the widespread adoption of spreadsheet software, contributing to the growth of personal computing and the development of business applications. Today, it remains one of the most widely used spreadsheet applications globally, with new versions and updates being released regularly as part of the Microsoft Office suite.