Lesson plan
Classical cipher
In cryptography, a classical cipher is a type of cipher that was used historically but, for the most part, has fallen into disuse. In contrast to modern cryptographic algorithms, most classical ciphers are very simple to break with modern technology, and usually can also be solved by hand. The term includes the simple systems used since Greek and Roman times, the elaborate Renaissance ciphers, World War II cryptography such as the Enigma machine, and others. Conversely, modern strong cryptography relies on new algorithms and computers developed since the 1970s.
Article summary
In cryptography, a classical cipher is a type of cipher that was used historically but, for the most part, has fallen into disuse. In contrast to modern cryptographic algorithms, most classical ciphers are very simple to break with modern technology, and usually can also be solved by hand. The term includes the simple systems used since Greek and Roman times, the elaborate Renaissance ciphers, World War II cryptography such as the Enigma machine, and others. Conversely, modern strong cryptography relies on new algorithms and computers developed since the 1970s.
Key claims
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Discussion questions
- Summarise the article in your own words. Which single claim would you verify first, and why?
- Which claim in this article is most likely to be revised as the sources update? How would you check its current status?
- If two sources disagreed about one of these facts, what would you need in order to trust one over the other?
Bibliography
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Key claims and bibliography are generated from the same tracked claims and sources as the article page.