Just before the end of the MySQL Advent Calendar, let me announce (or remind you) that MySQL will turn 30 next year!!

The first version of MySQL was released in 1995, three decades ago. That database would become MySQL, the open-source relational database management system that has since transformed how developers build and scale applications.

Today, as we prepare MySQL's 30th anniversary, we reflect on its journey, impact, and what lies ahead for this pioneering technology.

The Birth of a Game-Changer

Michael "Monty" Widenius, David Axmark, and Allan Larsson are MySQL's initial authors and founders.

Their vision was to develop a database system that was fast, reliable, and accessible to everyone. Little did they know that their creation would spark an open-source movement that would ripple through the software world.

From the beginning, MySQL stood out with its focus on simplicity, performance, and flexibility. As a free and open-source platform, it empowered developers to innovate without the constraints of traditional proprietary software. It quickly gained popularity among startups, hobbyists, and enterprise developers alike.

Key Milestones in MySQL's Journey

Over the past 30 years, MySQL has achieved numerous milestones that highlight its evolution and enduring relevance:

• 1995: MySQL was founded, and the first version was released in May.
• 1998: MySQL AB was founded as the company behind MySQL, providing support, services, and commercial licensing.
• 2000: MySQL AB adopted the GNU General Public License (GPL), reinforcing its commitment to open source.
• 2001: The emblematic MySQL 3.23 was released, and MyISAM and replication were introduced.
• 2003: MySQL turned ACID by adding the support of InnoDB, and MySQL 4.0 was released.
• 2005: MySQL 5.0 introduced support for store procedures, triggers, and views. At the same time, Oracle acquired Innobase.
• 2008: Sun Microsystems acquired MySQL AB, expanding MySQL's reach and resources. This was +/- a $1 billion transaction!
• 2009: Then it was Oracle's turn to acquire Sun Microsystems (deal completed in 2010)
• 2012: MySQL 5.6, finally GTIDs!
• 2015: Release of MySQL 5.7 with significant improvements in performance, JSON support, replication, group replication, and security enhancements
• 2018: MySQL 8.0 is GA, a giant leap for SQL and adopting a continuous development model.
• 2019: MySQL declared DBMS of the year by DB-Engines
• 2020: MySQL in OCI with MySQL HeatWave, not only MySQL DBaaS but also in memory acceleration, Object Storage, Machine Learning, and GenAI capabilities
• 2024: MySQL 8.4 LTS and 9.0 were released, and it is still the most popular open-source database!

Why MySQL Matters

MySQL's impact extends far beyond its technical merits. It has been a cornerstone of innovation for countless organizations, powering websites, applications, and data-driven solutions.

Major companies like Facebook, Twitter, Booking.com, Uber, and others rely on MySQL for their core operations.

The database's open-source nature has fostered a vibrant community of developers who are contributing to its continuous improvement. This collaborative spirit has ensured that MySQL remains at the forefront of database technology, even as the industry evolves with trends like cloud computing, big data, and AI, which is the strategic positioning of MySQL HeatWave.

Thank You, MySQL Community

This anniversary is not just a celebration of technology but a tribute to the incredible community that has made it possible.

To every developer, contributor, and advocate who has shared their knowledge, reported bugs, written documentation, or championed MySQL—thank you. Your passion and dedication have fueled MySQL's journey and success.

Join the Celebration

As we mark 30 years of MySQL, we invite you to share your stories, projects, and memories. Whether you're a long-time user or just starting with MySQL, your experiences shape the future of this remarkable technology. Use the hashtag #MySQL30 to join the conversation and celebrate this milestone.

The official celebrations will start in Belgium with the preFOSDEM MySQL Belgian Days and FOSDEM. We will announce many additional events throughout the year to celebrate this milestone!