While "CC" specifically refers to the modern cloud era, Adobe Illustrator has a much longer history.
Before June 2013, users purchased licenses for software versions like Illustrator CS6. The release of Illustrator CC marked the end of the "CS" branding. The initial reaction from the professional community was mixed due to the shift to recurring payments, but the benefit was immediate access to the latest features without waiting for a paid upgrade. adobe illustrator cc release date
The very first version was launched for the Apple Macintosh on March 19, 1987. While "CC" specifically refers to the modern cloud