For a long time all systems which deal with timezone data (like ability to convert utc to est for example) was reliant on 1 server in 1 random guy's basement which he paid for himself. I heard they were working to correct this situation but haven't been following it.

[–] mushroommunk@lemmy.today 43 points 2 weeks ago

You sent me down the exact kind of weird rabbit hole I love. Genuinely thank you.

It's maintained by the IANA now (the same people who basically run the modern Internet, saying what domains are allowed and such for those who don't know). Though Arthur David Olson (the man you mentioned) still contributes his expertise and data.

[–] folekaule@lemmy.world 18 points 2 weeks ago* (last edited 2 weeks ago) (1 children)

You're probably thinking of Paul Eggert.

Edit: I was a bit quick to post. The article I linked says Arthur David Olson (mentioned in sibling comment) started the TZ database, with Paul Eggert extending it and maintaining it later. The 2011 lawsuit is also mentioned in the Wikipedia page I just linked.

[–] rothaine@lemmy.zip 2 points 2 weeks ago

I remember when he got sued for copyright infringement or something ridiculous and it was big news