Bill Gates | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : March 28, 2025

Who is Bill Gates?

Bill Gates, born on October 28, 1955, in Seattle, Washington, is a renowned entrepreneur, software engineer, and philanthropist best known as the co-founder of Microsoft Corporation. Alongside his childhood friend Paul Allen, Gates launched Microsoft in 1975, which revolutionized the software industry with its development of the MS-DOS operating system and later the widely-used Windows operating system. Over the years, Gates played a pivotal role in shaping personal computing and turning Microsoft into one of the world's most valuable companies, earning him a spot among the wealthiest individuals globally.

Beyond his business achievements, Gates is an influential philanthropist. Along with his then-wife Melinda, he established the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in 2000, focusing on global health, education, and poverty alleviation. The foundation has committed billions to initiatives aimed at improving healthcare and combating diseases in developing countries. Gates' philanthropic efforts exemplify a commitment to giving back, reflecting his belief that substantial wealth comes with a responsibility to contribute positively to society. His journey from a tech visionary to a leading global philanthropist underscores a deep-seated belief in innovation and social good.

Early Life and Education

William Henry Gates III, known as Bill Gates, was born on October 28, 1955, in Seattle, Washington. He was raised in an upper-middle-class family, with his father, William H. Gates II, a lawyer, and his mother, Mary Maxwell Gates, who played a significant role in community affairs while also volunteering in educational settings. Gates grew up alongside two sisters, fostering a competitive spirit within the family. He discovered an early affinity for technology and mathematics, which later shaped his future.

Gates attended Lakeside School, an exclusive preparatory institution where his passion for computers blossomed. Introduced to programming at a young age, he developed a tic-tac-toe game at 13, marking the beginning of his journey into the tech world. His encouragement from parents and opportunities at Lakeside helped him excel academically. Despite his strong interest in computer science, he initially contemplated a career in law. However, during his time at Harvard University, his enthusiasm for computing overshadowed his formal studies, ultimately leading him to drop out to co-found Microsoft with Paul Allen.

Career Beginnings at Microsoft

Bill Gates’ journey into the world of technology began in 1975 when he co-founded Microsoft with childhood friend Paul Allen. Initially called "Micro-soft," the company started as a small venture with a focus on creating BASIC software for the Altair 8800, an early personal computer. The duo’s innovative spirit paid off when their software garnered attention from computer enthusiasts, restoring their access to the computer lab after a prior suspension for exploiting software glitches. Gates showcased his entrepreneurial acumen early on by developing a payroll program and a scheduling system, setting the stage for what would become a revolutionary career in software development.

As Microsoft began to grow, Gates' competitive nature and comprehensive understanding of software engineering drove the company forward in a rapidly evolving tech landscape. In 1979, he relocated the company to Bellevue, Washington, where he took on various roles, from product development to marketing. Gates exhibited unique managerial practices by personally reviewing every line of code, ensuring quality control in a burgeoning industry. By connecting with larger corporations and adapting to market needs, Microsoft soon expanded its sales significantly, establishing itself as a dominant force in the budding software industry. This relentless drive for innovation and excellence laid the foundation for Microsoft’s future successes.

Major Achievements and Philanthropy

Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft, has had a profound impact on the technology sector and philanthropy worldwide. He played a pivotal role in shaping the personal computing landscape, turning Microsoft into the world's leading software company. Under his leadership, Microsoft launched several iconic products, including the MS-DOS operating system and Windows software. Gates’s vision of software accessibility for the masses revolutionized how individuals interact with technology, facilitating an era of digital advancement. As of 2025, he has an estimated net worth of over $107 billion, solidifying his status as one of the wealthiest individuals globally.

In addition to his business success, Gates is widely recognized for his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Established in 2000, it focuses on addressing pressing global issues such as education, global health, and poverty alleviation. Gates has been instrumental in funding initiatives related to disease prevention, gender equality, and economic development worldwide. His commitment to charitable work has led to substantial contributions, totaling over $77 billion in grants. Gates’s philanthropy showcases his dedication to improving lives and tackling challenges faced by underserved communities, affirming his legacy beyond the tech world.

Personal Life: Married Life and Children

Bill Gates was married to Melinda French Gates for nearly three decades, spending a significant portion of their lives building a family and philanthropic legacy. The couple first met in 1987 at a Microsoft sales meeting, where Melinda worked as a product manager. Their relationship blossomed quickly, leading to their engagement in 1993 and a private wedding in Hawaii on January 1, 1994. Together, they became one of the world's most influential couples, known for their commitment to philanthropy through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

The couple shares three children: Jennifer, born in 1996; Rory, born in 1999; and Phoebe, born in 2002. Gates and Melinda raised their children in the Catholic faith, ensuring they were grounded in values of community service and education. Despite their high-profile status, the couple aimed for a normal upbringing for their kids, emphasizing the importance of hard work and responsibility. After 27 years of marriage, Gates and Melinda announced their separation in May 2021, with Gates reflecting on their partnership as a meaningful chapter in his life. Their continued collaborative efforts in philanthropy demonstrate a lasting bond centered around shared values.

Net Worth and Earning: Salary

Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft and a prominent philanthropist, has an impressive net worth that reflects his successful career in technology and business. As of February 2025, his estimated net worth is approximately $107.3 billion according to Forbes, ranking him as the 16th wealthiest person globally. The Bloomberg Billionaires Index places his wealth even higher, at around $166 billion, with Gates being the 7th richest individual. This variance highlights the fluctuations in his stock holdings, which are primarily derived from Microsoft and various investments he has made throughout his life.

Gates became a millionaire shortly after Microsoft went public in March 1986, when he was just 30 years old. At that time, he sold over $1.6 million worth of shares while retaining 45 percent of the company, translating to an initial stake worth around $350 million. His financial success continued to snowball, leading him to become the world's youngest billionaire at the age of 31 in 1987. Gates’ keen intellect and business acumen have kept him consistently near the top of Forbes’ annual rankings of the richest individuals, which he dominated for over a decade during the late 20th and early 21st centuries.