Use the source, Luke

If you watch the film Revolution OS, there is a moment when Linus Torvalds presents an award to the FSF, represented by Richard Stallman.

On receiving the award, Stallman opens with a very ironic remark: that this is like Han Solo giving an award to the Rebel Alliance. Then he carries on with his usual speech while Linus plays with his daughters, not paying much attention.

That scene is very revealing.

I have always wondered what would have become of the free software movement without the Linux kernel. Likening Linus Torvalds to Han Solo is no small comparison. Remember that if Han Solo hadn’t shown up and attacked Darth Vader’s ship, poor Luke would never have pulled off his feat.

On Star Wars Day (or Luke Skywalker Day) I couldn’t let that go unmentioned.

May the 4th be with you.