The Morse code was developed in the early 1800's in conjunction with the first land-line telegraph systems, as a means of sending messages via electrical impulses over long distances. The Morse Code is named after it's inventor, a gentleman by the name of Samuel F B Morse. A modified version of that code is in use today by ham radio operators world-wide. In the beginning days of radio, no one understood the engineering requirements necessary to construct equipment capable of sending and receiving signals using voice, so Morse code was the only means available.
Morse code remains the simplest and most efficient way known to send messages via radio.
There are thousands of QRP enthusiasts around the world. In many cases, the rare station uses only Morse code, and there is no alternative if you wish to contact them. Because Morse code equipment is so easy to construct and operate, and because it has the capability to get messages through when other modes fail, and because it is universally understood by operators in all countries, the governing bodies that make the international rules for Amateur radio have wisely decided that Morse code skills should be a continuing part of the Amateur radio licensing system. This license does not require passing a code test, but it has several limitations which limit it's use to those frequency ranges wherein international communications rarely or never occur. Many people enter the ranks of Amateur Radio via the Technician class license, then go on to upgrade their skills , including learning the Morse code, and move up to one of the higher classes of license available.