GraphQL, an open-source query and manipulation language for APIs, was created by Facebook in 2012 and publicly released in 2015, offering a unique approach to API management by allowing a single HTTP endpoint to fetch and alter data from multiple backend sources. Hosted by the Linux Foundation since 2018, GraphQL enables clients to control the returned data format, making APIs self-documenting and flexible in terms of database configuration. Developers can create schemas using the GraphQL schema language, defining types and resolvers to manage data queries and mutations efficiently. Unlike REST APIs, GraphQL allows schema modifications without new API versions, enhancing adaptability. Tools such as Apollo support GraphQL integration for various languages, and testing utilities like Postman and Insomnia aid in endpoint verification. Overall, GraphQL simplifies API development by addressing REST-related challenges and offering a robust framework for data management.