Linux kernel adopts BitKeeper

Linus Torvalds announces the Linux kernel project would officially use BitKeeper, a proprietary distributed VCS, after years of struggling with CVS and lack of suitable free alternatives.

Significance

This marked a significant shift in Linux kernel development, vastly improving workflow efficiency, but also introduced a dependence on proprietary software that would ultimately lead to Git's creation.

Key facts

Date
2002-04-01
Type
milestone
Location
Global (Linux kernel development community)