Bill gates began programming computers at the of age 13

Bill Gates began programming computers at the age of 13.

Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft and one of the world’s most influential figures in technology, began his journey into the world of programming at a remarkably young age. At only 13 years old, Gates had his first encounter with computers and discovered his passion for coding.

During his early years at Lakeside School in Seattle, Washington, an institution known for its tech-friendly environment, Gates became intrigued by computers. In 1968, the school administration raised funds to purchase computer time on a General Electric (GE) machine. However, Gates was not satisfied with mere computer time; he sought to understand how these machines really worked.

Being the curious and determined mind he is, Gates managed to find a loophole that granted him unlimited computer time. This gave him the opportunity to explore and experiment with programming languages, including Fortran, Lisp, and machine language.

Gates’ commitment to programming increased significantly when he discovered that a nearby organization, the Computer Center Corporation (CCC), was offering a programming class. It was there, at the tender age of 13, that he wrote his first computer program, which was a tic-tac-toe game.

His passion for programming continued to grow, and Gates dedicated countless hours to honing his skills. He became well-versed in various programming languages and gained a deep understanding of computer systems. This knowledge laid the foundation for his future endeavors and success.

Though Gates’ programming journey truly began at the age of 13, his achievements didn’t stop there. He later attended Harvard University, but his entrepreneurial spirit led him to drop out and co-found Microsoft with Paul Allen in 1975. The rest, as they say, is history.

The fact that Bill Gates began programming computers at the age of 13 showcases his prodigious talent and foreshadows the technological revolution he would lead. Today, his contributions to the tech industry are immeasurable, and his influence continues to shape the digital landscape.

Source: Computer History - Bill Gates