1989: Linus Torvalds began working on a new operating system by modifying the UNIX source code. He added new features and named the project "Linux."

1991: Linus Torvalds officially released the first version of the Linux kernel, marking the beginning of the Linux operating system as we know it. The initial release was a major milestone in open-source software development.

1999: The Apache Software Foundation did not take over Linux. Instead, Linux distributions continued to be developed and maintained by various organizations and communities. By this time, many Linux distributions had been released, each adding its own features and enhancements.

Notable Linux Distributions

1. Apache Linux: This is not an official Linux distribution. It seems there might be some confusion here. The Apache Software Foundation is known for the Apache HTTP Server, not a Linux distribution.

2. Fedora Linux: A cutting-edge, community-driven distribution sponsored by Red Hat, known for its innovation and inclusion of the latest technologies.

3. SUSE Linux: An enterprise-focused distribution that is known for its stability and robust support, suitable for both personal and professional use.

4. Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL): A commercial Linux distribution known for its stability and enterprise support, used widely in corporate environments.

5. Debian Linux: A community-driven distribution known for its stability and extensive repository of software packages. It serves as the basis for many other distributions.

6. Linux Mint: A user-friendly distribution based on Ubuntu, designed to be easy to use and suitable for those transitioning from other operating systems.

7. CentOS: A free and open-source distribution derived from RHEL sources, aimed at providing a community-supported alternative to the commercial Red Hat distribution.

8. Ubuntu Linux: A popular, user-friendly distribution based on Debian, known for its ease of use and strong community support. It is widely used on desktops and servers.

9. Kali Linux: A specialized distribution designed for penetration testing and security auditing, packed with tools for ethical hacking and cybersecurity.

10. Amazon Linux: A Linux distribution provided by Amazon Web Services (AWS), optimized for use on AWS cloud environments.

11. Oracle Linux: A distribution provided by Oracle, based on RHEL and designed for enterprise environments, offering compatibility with Oracle software.

12. Turbo Linux: A now-defunct distribution that was once popular in Asia, known for its performance and support for various hardware architectures.