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After my 50 reasons why Linux is better than windows I decided to show those commentators who think that the Linux penguin is weak and lame, how strong this little fellow really is. So I spent some time researching, looking for the coolest pics and the story behind Tux. The Web abounds with information about the little Linux mascot.

So let’s begin the story with a clarification: Tux is not the Linux logo. Now that we all know that, let’s move on. Of course you are free to check out the Tux story at the Wikipedia, but the authors there don’t have so many cool Tux pictures as I do. Google search was worth it, at least this time.

So Tux was born out of the need of a logo. Back in 1996, when Linux knew its first moments of glory. Its creator Linus Torvalds came up with the idea of having a cute penguin as a mascot. There are many legends around this cute icon, some summarized by Michelle Delio at Wired. My personal favorite is the story that tells that Linus was bit by a ferocious penguin that gave him penguinitis (“”Penguinitis makes you stay awake at nights just thinking about penguins and feeling great love towards them.” – source Wired)

Tux was designed by Larry Ewing and the penguin’s “godfather” – the one who gave its name was James Hughes. Although originally created as an entry for a Linux logo competition, Tux never won. So now you know why Tux is known as the mascot of Linux and not as the logo.

There are many who believe that Linux owes its appeal to the public greatly to Tux. The truth is that no woman can resist its charms, the kids simply love it and even the geeks are proud to own a Linux mascot!

And now, I let you enjoy Tux and all its charms.