Biography

Bill Gates Biography

William (Bill) H. Gates is the founder and chairman of Microsoft Corporation, the leader in software, services and solutions.

He is the critically acclaimed author of
The Road Ahead and
Business @ the Speed of Thought. 

• His latest book was published in 25 languages and is available in more than 60 countries. 
• The proceeds of which are donated to charity.
• Bill Gates is also one of leading philanthropists in the world.

Philanthropy is very important to Bill and his wife Melinda. The couple started The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in 2000, with a $28 billion contribution, to help reduce inequities in the United States and around the world. 

The Foundation focuses on initiatives in the areas of global health and learning, with the hope that advances in these critical areas will become available for all people.

Gates has received many accolades for his generosity.

• Time magazine named him “One of the 100 People Who Most Influenced the 20^th Century”.  It also named him, Melinda and U2 singer Bono as 2005’s “Persons of the Year” for their humanitarian efforts.”
• In March of that year, Bill was awarded an honorary Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II.

• On June 27, 2008, Gates transitioned out of his daily role at Microsoft to dedicate more time to the Foundation.

• Then in December 9, 2010, Bill Gates stunned the media when he signed a promise along with investor Warren Buffet and Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg to donate at least half of his wealth to charity over time.
 

Bill and Melinda Gates live near Lake Washington with their three children Phoebe, Rory and Jennifer.  His interests include reading, golf and playing bridge.

To learn more about the foundation visit www.gatesfoundation.org.