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Enrolls at Harvard University
Richard Stallman enrolls at Harvard University, immersing himself in the emerging culture of computer programming. At Harvard, he quickly becomes enamored with the possibilities offered by early computers and begins working at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's (MIT) Artificial Intelligence Lab (AI Lab). -
MIT AI Lab
Stallman becomes a pivotal figure at the MIT AI Lab, engaging in collaborative, innovative projects with fellow hackers. His early work includes contributions to the development of the Incompatible Timesharing System (ITS), an operating system used at the lab. -
GNU Emacs
Recognizing the need for a powerful text editor, Stallman creates the first version of Emacs, a highly extensible and customizable text editor. This tool becomes a cornerstone of software development and continues to influence subsequent generations of programmers. -
The GNU Project
Frustrated by the increasing proprietary nature of software, Stallman announces the GNU Project. His vision is to create a Unix-like operating system composed entirely of free software, respecting users' freedom to run, study, share, and modify the software -
FSF
Founding the Free Software Foundation (FSF), Stallman establishes an organization dedicated to promoting and supporting the principles of free software. The FSF becomes a crucial advocate for software freedom, providing resources and legal frameworks to protect users' rights. -
GPL
As the GNU Project progresses, Stallman releases the GNU General Public License (GPL). This groundbreaking license ensures that software covered by it remains free and open, allowing users to modify and distribute their versions of the software while preserving essential freedoms. -
MacArthur Fellowship
Stallman receives the MacArthur Fellowship, also known as the "genius grant," recognizing his exceptional contributions to the development of free software and his advocacy for users' rights. -
GNU/Linux
Linus Torvalds releases the Linux kernel, combining it with GNU software to create a complete, free operating system. The synergy between GNU and Linux leads to the development of a robust and widely adopted open-source ecosystem. -
Ethical underpinnings of free software
Emphasizing the ethical underpinnings of free software, Stallman clarifies his stance on the term "open source." He argues that the free software movement is not merely a development methodology but a moral imperative rooted in users' freedom. -
AGPL
Acknowledging the changing landscape of software deployment, Stallman introduces the Affero General Public License (AGPL). This license addresses the challenges posed by network-based software by ensuring users' freedom even when interacting with software over a network. -
GNU GPLv3
Continuing his commitment to evolving software licensing practices, Stallman releases version 3 of the GNU General Public License (GPLv3). This updated license addresses new challenges in the digital landscape, such as software patents and digital rights management -
Controversy
Stallman resigns from his position at MIT due to controversy surrounding his comments on the Jeffrey Epstein case. The incident sparks discussions within the community about the intersection of personal opinions, professional conduct, and the principles of free software. -
Leaves the FSF
Facing criticism for his views on certain social and political issues, Stallman resigns from the presidency of the FSF. The event prompts conversations about inclusivity and diversity within the open-source community. -
Rejoins the FSF Board
After a period of reflection and clarifying his positions, Stallman returns to the FSF board. His return prompts discussions about the balance between personal beliefs and professional responsibilities within the free software movement. -
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Stallman's advocacy for software freedom persists, influencing ongoing conversations about ethics in technology and shaping the discourse on the role of open source in building a more equitable and user-centric digital world. His dedication to the principles of free software continues to inspire and guide the open-source community.