Yes, actually, I don't think it's controversial to say that Java did more to popularize immutable strings than any of the languages you're thinking of. And when people get CS degrees completely centered around Java, bring this kind of "feature" and others to C++, they end up churning out what looks a lot like pretend-Java.

Do those CS degrees exist? I pity those students.

Back then when I graduated (1999), at least in Portugal there were lots and lots of languages to use for assignments, during the degree (5 years long).

I had a problem with the traffic volumes! It's back now, and stable.

I don't mention Java ;)