Meaning: The quote by Andy Hertzfeld, an American computer scientist and inventor, provides insight into his personal experience with free software and the impact of the Mozilla announcement in February 1998. The quote reflects Hertzfeld's involvement and interest in the open-source software movement, particularly in relation to the Mozilla project, and it sheds light on the significance of this period in the history of free software.

In the late 1990s, the open-source software movement was gaining momentum, driven by the efforts of individuals and organizations to promote collaborative development, transparency, and accessibility of software code. The release of the Mozilla source code in February 1998 marked a pivotal moment in the history of free software, as it signaled the birth of the Mozilla project and the development of the open-source web browser, Firefox.

Hertzfeld's reference to being "bitten by the free software bug" highlights the transformative nature of his encounter with open-source software. The term "bug" in this context alludes to a strong and persistent interest or enthusiasm for free software, indicating that Hertzfeld was deeply affected by the principles and potential of open-source development. His use of the word "bitten" conveys a sense of being captivated or even enticed by the possibilities that free software offered, suggesting a profound impact on his perspective and engagement with software development.

As one of the key developers of the original Macintosh computer and a prominent figure in the early days of Apple, Hertzfeld's endorsement of free software carries significant weight. His involvement in the open-source community and his embrace of the ethos of collaboration and openness further underscores the importance of the free software movement during this period.

The Mozilla announcement in February 1998 was a watershed moment for the open-source community. The decision to release the source code of the Netscape Navigator web browser under an open-source license marked a departure from the traditional proprietary model of software development. This move not only catalyzed the development of the Firefox browser but also symbolized a shift towards greater transparency, community-driven innovation, and the democratization of software development.

Hertzfeld's reference to the timing of the Mozilla announcement in relation to his own experience suggests that this event was a catalyst for his deepening involvement in the free software movement. The significance of this period is further underscored by the fact that the release of the Mozilla source code had far-reaching implications for the evolution of open-source software and the broader tech industry.

The quote serves as a testament to the transformative power of the free software movement and the profound impact it had on individuals like Hertzfeld. It also highlights the pivotal role played by key events such as the Mozilla announcement in shaping the trajectory of open-source development and influencing the perspectives of software developers and innovators.

In conclusion, Andy Hertzfeld's quote encapsulates the personal and historical significance of the free software movement, particularly in the context of the Mozilla announcement in February 1998. His words convey the allure and impact of open-source software, reflecting a pivotal moment in the evolution of the tech industry and the ethos of collaborative, transparent, and accessible software development.

While the quote may be concise, its implications are far-reaching, speaking to the enduring influence of the free software movement and the profound impact it had on individuals and the broader landscape of software development.