Bill Gates (born October 28, 1955) is an American entrepreneur, philanthropist, and co-founder of Microsoft, which he launched with Paul Allen in 1975. He led the microcomputer revolution, making Microsoft the world's largest software company. A former richest person in the world, he now focuses on global health via the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. 

Key Facts & Achievements

Early Life: Born in Seattle, Washington, he developed an early interest in programming, writing his first software at age 13.

Microsoft: Dropped out of Harvard University in his junior year to co-found Microsoft.

Success: Under his leadership, Microsoft created the MS-DOS and Windows operating systems, becoming dominant in the personal computer industry.

Philanthropy: Established the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in 2000, focusing on global health, education, and development.

Wealth: He became the world's youngest billionaire in 1987 at age 31.

Current Status: As of February 2026, he remains one of the world's wealthiest individuals. 

Microsoft founder Bill Gates: 5 facts to know about the billionaire tech giant