William Henry Gates II, known as Bill Gates, was born on October 28, 1955. His parents, both University of Washington graduates, raised him in a competitive and ambitious environment. Gates excelled in mathematics and was enrolled in Seattle's exclusive Lakeside School at age 11. In 1968, the school introduced its students to computers, sparking Gates' interest. He and his friend Paul Allen became avid computer enthusiasts, spending countless hours learning about computers and writing programs. They formed the Lakeside Programmers Group, dedicated to finding ways to monetize computers. This early experience led to their first paid job, writing a payroll program. Gates and Allen later formed a company called Traf-O-Data, and another group called Logic Simulation Company, both aimed at utilizing computers for practical applications.
William Henry Gates II, widely known as Bill Gates, was born to William Gates Jr., a World War II veteran turned lawyer, and Mary Maxwell, a University of Washington alumna. From a young age, Gates was recognized for his independence and intellect, particularly in mathematics. His education at Lakeside School, a prestigious institution in Seattle, exposed him to computers in 1968 through a teletype terminal connected to a General Electric mini-computer, funded by a Mothers Club fundraiser. Alongside Paul Allen, Gates delved into programming, forming the Lakeside Programmers Group. Their early exploits included unauthorized access to a company's computer files, leading to an arrangement where they documented system vulnerabilities in exchange for free computer time. Despite their technical prowess, Gates was remembered by peers for his confidence and intelligence, traits that hinted at his future success.
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