Unix Development Begins on PDP-7

Ken Thompson, frustrated by the lack of a suitable operating system for his work and games, begins developing a new system on an unused DEC PDP-7.

Significance

This marks the birth of Unix, driven by personal need rather than corporate mandate, laying the groundwork for a revolutionary approach to OS design.

Key facts

Date
1969-08-01
Type
invention
Location
Bell Labs, Murray Hill, New Jersey, USA