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Richard Stallman is born
Born in New York City, Stallman would later become a pioneer in computer programming and free software. -
Works at IBM's New York Scientific Center
Stallman programs in APL at IBM during high school, his first major programming job. -
Joins MIT Artificial Intelligence Lab
Becomes part of MIT's AI Lab, entering a hacker culture built around freedom and knowledge-sharing. -
Richard Stallman announces the GNU Project
Stallman publicly announces GNU (GNU's Not Unix), aiming to create a free operating system. -
Founds the Free Software Foundation (FSF)
Establishes the FSF to support the GNU Project and promote free software principles. -
Releases GNU Emacs
GNU Emacs becomes one of the first and most successful free software programs created under the GNU Project. -
Publishes GNU General Public License (GPL) v1
The GPL is a revolutionary free software license ensuring users' rights to modify and share software. -
Linux Kernel Integrates GNU Tools
Linus Torvalds releases the Linux kernel, combining with GNU tools to form a fully free operating system. -
Launches Savannah Project
Savannah is developed as a platform for collaborative free software development under FSF. -
Publishes Free Software, Free Society
Stallman releases a collection of his key essays explaining the philosophy of software freedom. -
FSF Launches DefectiveByDesign Anti-DRM Campaign
Stallman leads FSF’s efforts against DRM technologies restricting user freedom. -
International Campaigns Against Software Patents
Stallman travels globally speaking against software patents, arguing they stifle innovation. -
Advocates for Privacy After Snowden Leaks
Stallman uses Edward Snowden's revelations to highlight dangers of surveillance and closed software. -
Resigns from MIT & FSF
Stallman resigns amid controversy over email comments related to Jeffrey Epstein, sparking debate. -
Returns to FSF Board
Stallman announces his return to the Free Software Foundation's board, continuing his advocacy for free software.