The History of FSF Endorsed Linux Distros

:pencil:gNewSense and gobuntu were attempts at creating FSF endorsed, truly free software distributions based on Ubuntu.

:computer:Both gNewSense and gobuntu faced challenges in maintaining complete adherence to the FSF definition of freedom, including trademark restrictions and software patents.

:globe_with_meridians:gNewSense started in collaboration with the FSF and aimed to provide an ultra-orthodox version of Ubuntu with only free software.

:zap:gobuntu aimed to be an officially recognized flavor of Ubuntu that offered a strict interpretation of free software by excluding proprietary software and non-free content.

:wrench:The challenges of creating truly free software distributions include dealing with trademark restrictions, software patents, and providing adequate alternatives for proprietary software dependencies.

What is the FSF definition of freedom?

—The Free Software Foundation (FSF) defines freedom as the ability to run, copy, distribute, study, change, and improve the software. This requires that the software is free from any proprietary restrictions, including licenses and patents.

Why did gNewSense and gobuntu face challenges in maintaining complete adherence to the FSF definition of freedom?

—gNewSense and gobuntu faced challenges due to trademark restrictions, software patents, and the need for certain proprietary software to enable full functionality on modern hardware.

What were the goals of gNewSense and gobuntu?

—gNewSense aimed to create an ultra-orthodox version of Ubuntu that included only free software, while gobuntu aimed to be an officially recognized flavor of Ubuntu that strictly adhered to the FSF definition of freedom.

What were the key issues with gNewSense and gobuntu?

—gNewSense faced issues with trademark restrictions and the inclusion of non-free software dependencies, while gobuntu faced challenges in providing alternatives for proprietary software and addressing software patent concerns.

What are the challenges of creating truly free software distributions?

—The challenges include navigating trademark restrictions, addressing software patents, finding alternatives for proprietary software dependencies, and ensuring complete adherence to the FSF definition of freedom.

00:00gNewSense and gobuntu were attempts at creating FSF endorsed, truly free software distributions based on Ubuntu.

01:10gNewSense started in collaboration with the FSF and aimed to provide an ultra-orthodox version of Ubuntu with only free software.

02:08gobuntu aimed to be an officially recognized flavor of Ubuntu that offered a strict interpretation of free software by excluding proprietary software and non-free content.

06:06gNewSense and gobuntu faced challenges in maintaining complete adherence to the FSF definition of freedom, including trademark restrictions and software patents.

12:30The challenges of creating truly free software distributions include dealing with trademark restrictions, software patents, and providing adequate alternatives for proprietary software dependencies.