Software Freedom Day

Software Freedom Day is dedicated to free software and is celebrated every third Saturday in September. This day highlights the importance of open-source software and the benefits it brings to the community, encouraging collaboration, innovation, and learning.

History

The idea of distributing free software on the internet belongs to Richard Stallman, the founder of the GNU Project, who made his announcement in 1983. He believed that if developers shared more open-source programs, it would allow everyone to study how they work in detail. This openness gives other specialists the opportunity to build on existing code and create something new and valuable.

In 2004, the Digital Freedom Foundation was established as an organization to support the distribution of free software. The foundation also coordinates the annual celebration of Software Freedom Day.

Interesting Facts

• The first analytical engine, considered the prototype of modern computers, was created by Charles Babbage in 1822.
• The first programming language that could be widely used was developed in 1956 and named FORTRAN.
• Software development rapidly accelerated in the 1970s, when the first personal computers were introduced.

How to Take Part

During Software Freedom Day, you can visit computer exhibitions, participate in seminars, and attend lectures on open-source topics. Free software is a great way to improve your programming skills.

If you have the interest and skills, try developing your own program to solve simple tasks. Share your work with the community and contribute to the growth of open-source resources.

When is Software Freedom Day in 2025?

Software Freedom Day is observed on the third Saturday of September each year.

Observations