Linux Journal: A History of the First Linux Publication
In the early days of the open-source movement, the need for a dedicated medium to document the evolution of the Linux kernel—the core component of the operating system—became evident. This need was met in 1994 with the launch of Linux Journal, the first magazine dedicated specifically to the Linux kernel and the various operating systems built upon it.
The Founding and Early Years
Linux Journal was established in March 1994 by Phil Hughes and Bob Young, the co-founders of Red Hat. The debut issue set a high standard for the publication by featuring an interview with Linus Torvalds, the creator of Linux. For nearly two decades, the magazine served as a primary resource for the growing community of developers and enthusiasts.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]The Transition to Digital
As media consumption habits shifted, the publication adapted its delivery method. The final print edition was released in August 2011 (Issue 208). Starting with Issue 209 in September 2011, Linux Journal transitioned to a digital-only format, making its monthly content available across mobile, desktop, and e-pub platforms.
Controversies and Financial Struggles
The publication's history is not without turbulence. In July 2014, it was revealed that the NSA's XKeyscore—a wide-reaching surveillance program—had targeted readers of Linux Journal. This targeting was reportedly part of a broader effort to monitor individuals interested in Tails, a security-focused Linux distribution designed to preserve privacy.
Financial instability plagued the magazine in later years. On December 1, 2017, the publication announced it would cease operations due to mounting debt and an inability to pay its staff for several months.
Resurrections and New Management
The magazine experienced a brief revival on January 1, 2018, after being rescued by Private Internet Access / London Trust Media. Editor-in-chief Doc Searls envisioned the publication becoming a definitive cultural authority for the ecosystem, comparing its potential impact to that of National Geographic in geography or The New Yorker in New York City.
However, this recovery was short-lived. On August 7, 2019, the Journal announced it was shutting down once again, resulting in the termination of all staff. The publication remained dormant until September 22, 2020, when it resumed activity under the management of Slashdot Media.
Key Facts
- Founded: March 1994 by Phil Hughes and Bob Young.
- First Interview: Featured Linux creator Linus Torvalds in the first issue.
- Print Era: Ended in August 2011 with Issue 208.
- Digital Shift: Transitioned to digital-only formats in September 2011.
- Surveillance: Targeted by the NSA's XKeyscore program in 2014.
- Current Status: Resumed activity under Slashdot Media in September 2020.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| March 1994 | First issue published; interview with Linus Torvalds. |
| August 2011 | Final print edition (Issue 208) released. |
| July 2014 | Revealed as a target of the NSA's XKeyscore program. |
| December 2017 | Announced cessation of publication due to debt. |
| January 2018 | Rescued by Private Internet Access / London Trust Media. |
| August 2019 | Second shutdown and staff layoffs. |
| September 2020 | Resumed activity under Slashdot Media. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded Linux Journal?
The magazine was co-founded by Phil Hughes and Bob Young, who also co-founded Red Hat.
When did the magazine stop printing physical copies?
The last print edition was Issue 208, published in August 2011.
Why was Linux Journal targeted by the NSA?
The NSA's XKeyscore program targeted readers of the journal as part of an effort to identify people interested in the Tails Linux distribution.
Who currently manages Linux Journal?
As of September 22, 2020, the publication is under the management of Slashdot Media.
What was the goal of editor Doc Searls during the 2018 revival?
Doc Searls aimed for Linux Journal to be a comprehensive authority on the Linux ecosystem, similar to how National Geographic represents geography.