<human>:  What is the history of the violin?
<bot>: The violin is one of the oldest instruments still in use today. It is believed to have evolved from various stringed instruments in Europe during the Middle Ages, with the first known reference to a violin-like instrument coming from medieval Hungary in the 9th century. Its exact origins remain unknown, although a prototype for the modern violin did not appear until the 16th century in Italy. During the Renaissance and Baroque periods that followed, the violin became a staple of European music, with the instrument being used in religious music, opera, and other classical forms. In the 19th century, the violin saw an explosion of popularity as composers wrote more works for the instrument. By the 20th century, the instrument had become an essential part of nearly every kind of modern music, from rock and jazz to traditional folk music.