Linux is an OS. GNU is a framework where Linux kernel is a component. Linux was originally a Minix rewrite and was
a complete OS without any GNU software:
Lunix without GNU:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linux#MINIX
Torvalds began the development of Linux on Minix and applications written for Minix were also used under Linux. Later Linux matured and it became possible for Linux to be developed under itself.[19] Also GNU applications replaced all Minix ones because, with code from the GNU system freely available, it was advantageous if this could be used with the fledgling OS. Code licensed under the GNU GPL can be used in other projects, so long as they also are released under the same or a compatible license. In order to make the Linux kernel compatible with the components from the GNU Project, Torvalds initiated a switch from his original license (which prohibited commercial redistribution) to the GNU GPL.[20] Developers worked to integrate GNU components with Linux to make a fully functional and free operating system.[16]
GNU without Lunix:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gentoo/FreeBSD
I suppose pedants have to call this GNU/Gentoo/BSD or GNU/Gentoo/Linux/BSD.
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