C++ initially introduced classes, derived classes, strong typing, inlining and default arguments to the C language, hence the name: ++ means “current value+1” in C.
Later on, C++ evolved according to a rather healthy philosophy set by its creators that include the rule demanding to be close to the real world. It directs C++ evolution towards solving real contemporary problems, for immediate use of those solutions in actual software.
Here are some of the features C++ gained through 1983—1990:

○ virtual functions
○ function name and operator overloading
○ references
○ constants
○ type-safe free-store memory allocation (new/delete)
○ improved type checking
○ multiple inheritance
○ abstract classes
○ static member functions
○ const member functions
○ protected members
○ templates
○ exceptions
○ namespaces
○ casts

"C++ solves the problem choosing a suitable operating system as long as this language is portable and, thus, it enables developing of programs irrespective of hardware. With C++ we are able to build complex solutions for a short period of time."

Being developed on the cutting edge of the industry, C++ introduced many new features to programming and had heavily influenced newer languages: Java, C#, D, etc. C++ is a highly versatile, strong and resourceful language, designed with productivity, large-scale and system programming kept in mind, it now can be found in so many more implementations, with C++ compilers available on so many platforms. The language allows creating fast and nimble suites even for kitchen appliances, not saying space probes. It also has a huge library collection and one of its philosophy rules demands equal support and performance for user-created and built-in classes.
Sometimes called omnipotent, C++ still evolves with new set of features and improvements coming in 2017. Well, good news.