Understanding the Development of Git by Linus Torvalds

Git is a hallmark system in the realm of version control. The inception and development of Git is attributed to Linus Torvalds, a renowned software engineer who is also popularly known for creating the Linux kernel.

The goal behind the creation of Git was to facilitate a distributed workflow, providing support for non-linear development and the ability to handle large projects with efficiency. It was designed for speed, data integrity, and to support distributed, nonlinear workflows. Linus Torvalds initiated the development of Git in the year 2005 as a response to cope with the challenges faced while managing the Linux kernel development.

Why Linus Torvalds Developed Git

Prior to Git, Linus and his team were using a proprietary distributed version control system called BitKeeper. However, in 2005, the relationship between the Linux community and BitKeeper broke down and the team found themselves in need of a new version control system. Linus decided to create his own, and that's how Git was born.

Practical Applications of Git

In terms of practical applications, Git is widely used in software development to keep track of changes made to the source code. Developers can work on different versions of a project simultaneously, then merge their changes together when they're ready. Git allows for flexibility and organisation in the development process, enabling teams to effectively collaborate and maintain the integrity and consistency of their projects.

Best Practices for Using Git

While using Git, there are several best practices to consider:

• Regularly commit work: Git's functionality allows for tracking changes over different stages. Regular committing can keep your work organized and make it easier to locate specific changes.
• Utilize branches: Branching in Git allows you to diverge from the main line of development and continue work without affecting the main line.
• Merge cautiously: While merging branches, pay attention to conflicts that may arise. It’s essential to resolve these conflicts and maintain a clean code base.

In conclusion, Linus Torvalds, the developer behind both Linux and Git, has had an immense impact on the software and development industry. His creation, Git, has become the go-to tool for version control among developers globally, enabling efficient collaborative work and organization of projects.