Explore the complete Bill Gates biography, from his early life and Microsoft founding to net worth, family, philanthropy, controversies, and global influence in technology and health.
Bill Gates Biography: Early Life, Microsoft Success, Net Worth, Family, Philanthropy & Legacy
| Full Name | William Henry Gates III |
|---|---|
| Known As | Bill Gates |
| Date of Birth | October 28, 1955 |
| Age | 69 Years (as of 2025) |
| Birth Place | Seattle, Washington, USA |
| Zodiac Sign | Scorpio |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Businessman, Software Developer, Philanthropist |
| Father | William H. Gates Sr. |
| Mother | Mary Maxwell Gates |
| Siblings | Kristi Gates, Libby Gates |
| Education | Harvard University (Dropout) |
| First Invention | Tic-Tac-Toe Computer Program |
| Microsoft Founded | 1975 (with Paul Allen) |
| Famous For | Founder of Microsoft, Windows OS |
| Height | 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 75 kg |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Ex-Wife | Melinda French Gates |
| Children | Jennifer, Rory, Phoebe Gates |
| Net Worth | $110–130 Billion (Estimated) |
| Foundation | Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation |
| Major Awards | Presidential Medal of Freedom, Knighthood (UK) |
| Official Website | www.gatesnotes.com |
Introduction
Bill Gates is one of the most influential businessmen and philanthropists in modern history. Known globally as the co-founder of Microsoft, Gates revolutionized personal computing and reshaped the software industry. Beyond technology, he has dedicated much of his life to philanthropy through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, addressing global health, education, and poverty.
This detailed biography explores Bill Gates’ early life, education, Microsoft journey, personal life, net worth, controversies, and lasting legacy.
Early Life and Childhood
William Henry Gates III, widely known as Bill Gates, was born on October 28, 1955, in Seattle, Washington, USA. His zodiac sign is Scorpio, often associated with intelligence, determination, and ambition—traits Gates displayed from an early age.
Bill was raised in an upper-middle-class family that valued education, discipline, and civic responsibility. His parents encouraged debate, curiosity, and independent thinking, shaping his analytical mindset.
Parents and Family Background
Bill Gates’ father, William H. Gates Sr., was a prominent attorney and civic leader. His mother, Mary Maxwell Gates, was a businesswoman and philanthropist who served on corporate boards, including United Way and First Interstate BancSystem.
He has two sisters:
✔ Kristi Gates (elder sister)
✔ Libby Gates (younger sister)
The Gates family environment strongly influenced Bill’s leadership skills and sense of social responsibility.
Early Education and Love for Computers
Bill Gates attended Lakeside School, a private preparatory school in Seattle. At age 13, he was introduced to a computer terminal—an experience that changed his life forever.
At Lakeside, Gates:
✔ Learned BASIC programming
✔ Spent hours coding instead of socializing
✔ Developed early software applications
✔ Met Paul Allen, his future Microsoft co-founder
His obsession with computers set him apart from peers and teachers alike.
Higher Education and Harvard Years
In 1973, Bill Gates enrolled at Harvard University, majoring in mathematics and computer science. Although academically gifted, he spent more time programming than attending classes.
While at Harvard:
✔ He continued collaborating with Paul Allen
✔ Developed software ideas for emerging microcomputers
✔ Realized the massive potential of personal computing
In 1975, Gates made a life-changing decision—he dropped out of Harvard to pursue his software venture full-time.
Career Struggle and the Birth of Microsoft
The turning point came when Gates and Allen saw the Altair 8800, one of the first personal computers. They developed a BASIC interpreter for it, which became their first commercial success.
In 1975, they founded Microsoft in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Key early struggles included:
✔ Limited funding
✔ Skepticism from established tech firms
✔ Rapid technological change
Despite obstacles, Gates’ strategic vision set Microsoft apart.
Bill Gates and MS-DOS
One of Gates’ smartest business decisions was acquiring and licensing MS-DOS to IBM in 1980.
Instead of selling the software outright, Gates:
✔ Retained licensing rights
✔ Allowed Microsoft to sell MS-DOS to other manufacturers
✔ Created a software monopoly model
This move laid the foundation for Microsoft’s explosive growth.
The Idea of Microsoft Windows
In 1985, Microsoft launched Windows, a graphical user interface that transformed computing.
Windows success factors:
✔ User-friendly design
✔ Compatibility with IBM PCs
✔ Aggressive licensing strategy
Windows soon became the world’s most widely used operating system, making Gates the youngest self-made billionaire by age 31.
Career Peak and Microsoft Empire
During the 1990s:
✔ Microsoft dominated the global software market
✔ Products included Windows, Office, Internet Explorer
✔ Gates became the richest man in the world
By the late 1990s, Microsoft was valued at hundreds of billions of dollars, and Bill Gates became a household name.
Bill Gates Age, Height, and Physical Appearance
As of today:
✔ Age: 69 (born 1955)
✔ Height: Approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm)
✔ Weight: Around 75 kg
Gates is known for his modest dressing style and minimalist lifestyle.
Marriage, Wife, and Children
Bill Gates married Melinda French in 1994. The couple had three children:
✔ Jennifer Katharine Gates
✔ Rory John Gates
✔ Phoebe Adele Gates
In 2021, Bill and Melinda announced their divorce after 27 years of marriage, remaining partners in philanthropy for some time afterward.
Bill Gates Net Worth and Fortune
Bill Gates’ net worth fluctuates due to investments and philanthropy.
✔ Estimated net worth: $110–130 billion
✔ Income sources: Microsoft shares, Cascade Investment
✔ Regularly ranks among the world’s richest individuals
Despite his wealth, Gates has pledged to give away most of his fortune.
Cars, Homes, and Lifestyle
Bill Gates is known for his relatively modest lifestyle compared to other billionaires.
Homes
✔ Xanadu 2.0, a $125 million smart mansion in Washington
✔ Multiple eco-friendly residences
Cars
✔ Porsche 959
✔ Tesla Model X
✔ Chevrolet Corvette
Other Businesses and Investments
Through Cascade Investment, Gates invests in:
✔ Energy companies
✔ Hotels and hospitality
✔ Agriculture and land
✔ Technology startups
He is also one of the largest private farmland owners in the United States.
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
Founded in 2000, the foundation is the largest private charitable organization in the world.
Focus areas include:
✔ Global health
✔ Vaccination programs
✔ Education reform
✔ Climate change solutions
The foundation has donated over $60 billion worldwide.
Career Achievements and Awards
Major honors include:
✔ Presidential Medal of Freedom (2016)
✔ Knighthood by Queen Elizabeth II
✔ Time’s 100 Most Influential People
Gates’ influence extends far beyond technology.
Scandals and Controversies
Despite his success, Gates has faced criticism:
✔ Microsoft antitrust lawsuits
✔ Association controversies
✔ Criticism over pandemic influence
However, no criminal charges have ever been proven against him.
Social Media Presence
Bill Gates is active online:
✔ Twitter/X: @BillGates
✔ Blog: GatesNotes
✔ LinkedIn
He uses these platforms to discuss global issues.
Legacy and Global Impact
Bill Gates transformed:
✔ Personal computing
✔ Software business models
✔ Global philanthropy
His journey from a curious teenager to a global icon remains one of the most inspiring success stories in history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Bill Gates?
Bill Gates is an American businessman, philanthropist, and co-founder of Microsoft.
What is Bill Gates’ net worth?
His net worth is estimated between $110–130 billion.
Did Bill Gates finish college?
No, he dropped out of Harvard University.
Who is Bill Gates’ wife?
He was married to Melinda French Gates until 2021.
What does Bill Gates do now?
He focuses on philanthropy, climate solutions, and global health initiatives.
Conclusion
Bill Gates’ biography is a story of vision, innovation, controversy, and compassion. From building Microsoft into a global empire to redefining modern philanthropy, his impact is unmatched.
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