The History of Linux and Minix: Rumors Dismissed

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the origins of Linux, specifically addressing rumors that Linus Torvalds copied code from Minix. It is established that while Torvalds utilized Minix as a learning tool, he created Linux as a distinct replacement due to Minix's restrictive licensing by Andrew Tanenbaum. The conversation references a historical article by Tanenbaum that dismisses these rumors and provides insight into the development of Linux. This clarification highlights the collaborative nature of Linux's development, involving contributions from both Torvalds and GNU coders.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of operating system design principles
  • Familiarity with Linux kernel architecture
  • Knowledge of GNU project contributions
  • Awareness of software licensing issues, particularly regarding Minix
NEXT STEPS
  • Read "Operating Systems: Design and Implementation" by Andrew Tanenbaum
  • Explore the Linux kernel source code on GitHub
  • Investigate the GNU General Public License (GPL) and its implications
  • Study the evolution of Unix-like operating systems
USEFUL FOR

Software developers, operating system enthusiasts, and students of computer science interested in the historical context and development of Linux and its relationship with Minix.

fargoth
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well, the obvious answer is linus... (atleast he did the kernel, GNU coders coded lots of linux too)

but there were rumors going on that linus copied code off of minix.
i found a nice history articile made by the coder of minix.
nothing revolutionary about it.
he dissmisses these rumors, but it was pretty interesting to read, this guy writes well.

so here it is:
http://www.cs.vu.nl/~ast/brown/

enjoy.
 
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I thought that it was common knowledge that Linus was a user of Minix but say many ways in which it could be improved then made considerable improvements.
 
Meanwhile, in 1991, another kernel was begun as a hobby by Finnish university student Linus Torvalds while attending the University of Helsinki. Torvalds originally used Minix on his own computer, a simplified Unix-like system written by Andrew Tanenbaum for teaching operating system design. However, Tanenbaum did not permit others to extend his operating system, leading Torvalds to create a replacement for Minix.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linux
 
lol cool i learn something new everyday. I thought Linux was name after the programmer or user. hehe
 

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