Bill Gates Biography
**Full Name:** William Henry Gates III
**Date of Birth:** October 28, 1955
**Place of Birth:** Seattle, Washington, U.S.
**Occupation:** Business Magnate, Software Developer, Philanthropist
#### Early Life and Education
Bill Gates was born into a well-educated family; his father was a prominent lawyer and his mother served on the board of directors for First Interstate BancSystem. Gates showed an early interest in computers and programming, writing his first program at age 13 on a General Electric computer. He attended Harvard University but dropped out in 1975 to pursue his passion for software development.
#### Career
In 1975, Gates co-founded Microsoft with Paul Allen. The company initially focused on developing software for personal computers. In 1980, Microsoft struck a deal with IBM to provide an operating system, leading to the creation of MS-DOS, which became a dominant OS in the PC market. Under Gates’s leadership, Microsoft expanded rapidly, releasing the Windows operating system in 1985, which solidified its position as a leader in the software industry.
Gates served as Microsoft’s CEO until 2000, when he transitioned to the role of chief software architect. He stepped down from day-to-day operations in 2008 but remained involved in the company as a board member and advisor until 2020.
Philanthropy
In 2000, Gates and his then-wife Melinda founded the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which has become one of the largest private philanthropic foundations in the world. The foundation focuses on global health, education, and poverty alleviation, tackling issues like infectious diseases, malnutrition, and access to education. Gates has pledged to donate the majority of his wealth to philanthropic causes, emphasizing the importance of addressing global challenges through innovation and technology.
#### Personal Life
Bill Gates married Melinda French in 1994, and they have three children together. The couple announced their divorce in May 2021 but continue to work together on philanthropic initiatives.
Gates has received numerous awards throughout his career, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE). He is often listed among the world’s most influential and wealthy people.
Legacy
Bill Gates is recognized not only for his contributions to the tech industry but also for his efforts in philanthropy. His work has significantly impacted global health, education, and technology, making him a prominent figure in both business and humanitarian efforts.