Our history.
Leetspeak, also known as "1337sp34k" or "leet," is a form of internet slang and a unique writing style that originated in the early 1980s within hacker and computer enthusiast communities. It was developed as a way to encode messages and evade language filters used by early online platforms and bulletin board systems (BBS). The term "leet" itself is derived from the word "elite," reflecting the exclusivity and expertise associated with these hacker communities.

Community formed.
As the internet grew in popularity during the 1990s and early 2000s, leetspeak began to spread to other online communities and gaming cultures. It became a way for individuals to express their tech-savviness, assert their identity within these communities, and engage in playful and often competitive communication.

We Are Leet.
In summary, leetspeak emerged as a form of internet slang among hacker and computer enthusiast communities in the 1980s. It was developed as a means to encode messages, bypass language filters, and establish a unique identity within these communities. Over time, leetspeak expanded in popularity, spreading to various online platforms and gaming cultures. While its prominence has decreased, leetspeak continues to be recognized as an influential aspect of internet culture and the history of online communication.