The popular Linux operating system was developed by Linus Torvalds, who initiated the project in 1991. He created Linux as a free and open-source alternative to proprietary operating systems, focusing on flexibility and collaboration. Over the years, Linux has grown significantly, with contributions from developers worldwide, leading to its widespread adoption in various environments, including servers, desktops, and embedded systems. Its extensive ecosystem and strong community support make it a cornerstone of open-source software development.