JavaFX is a graphical user interface toolkit built on Java, evolving from earlier Java GUI libraries like AWT and Swing. Initially launched in 2007 and gaining traction after Oracle's acquisition of Sun Microsystems, JavaFX became a fundamental part of Java 8 released in 2014. It enables developers to create visually appealing applications with modern features such as FXML for UI design, CSS for styling, and multi-touch support.