Births on January 3

Gordon Moore, American businessman, co-founder of Intel Corporation

Gordon Earle Moore, born on January 3, 1929, in San Francisco, California, is a highly influential American figure renowned for his contributions as an engineer, visionary businessman, and the esteemed co-founder of Intel Corporation. His profound impact on the modern technological landscape is primarily defined by two monumental achievements: his pivotal role in establishing one of the world's leading semiconductor manufacturers and his formulation of the revolutionary concept known as Moore's Law.

Educated with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of California, Berkeley, in 1950, followed by a Ph.D. in Chemistry and Physics from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) in 1954, Moore's foundational scientific background laid the groundwork for his future innovations. He began his career at Shockley Semiconductor Laboratory, part of the "Traitorous Eight" who left to form Fairchild Semiconductor, a crucial precursor to the Silicon Valley ecosystem.

The Enduring Legacy of Moore's Law

Perhaps Moore's most globally recognized contribution is "Moore's Law," a term he coined in a 1965 article for *Electronics Magazine*. This prescient observation predicted that the number of transistors on a dense integrated circuit would double approximately every two years. Initially, in his 1965 paper, Moore suggested a doubling every year. However, in 1975, he revised this prediction to a doubling every two years, an adjustment that proved remarkably accurate for decades. This empirical law has since served as a guiding principle for the semiconductor industry, driving unprecedented advancements in computing power, miniaturization, and cost reduction. It has profoundly shaped the digital revolution, enabling everything from personal computers and smartphones to advanced artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things, perpetually pushing the boundaries of what technology can achieve.

Co-founding Intel Corporation: A Semiconductor Giant

In July 1968, Gordon Moore, alongside fellow physicist Robert Noyce and with the financial backing of venture capitalist Arthur Rock, co-founded NM Electronics, which was soon renamed Intel Corporation. Serving initially as Executive Vice President, then as President (1975-1979), and eventually as Chairman and CEO (1979-1987), Moore played an instrumental role in guiding Intel's growth into a global powerhouse. Under his leadership, Intel became the world's largest semiconductor chip manufacturer by revenue, consistently innovating in microprocessor technology and memory solutions. Today, he holds the honorary title of Chairman Emeritus, a testament to his lasting influence and legacy within the company he helped build from the ground up.

Philanthropy and Financial Standing

As of March 2021, Gordon Moore's net worth was publicly reported to be an estimated $12.6 billion, a testament to his extraordinary success in the technology sector. Beyond his entrepreneurial achievements, Moore is also a significant philanthropist. In 2000, he and his wife, Betty Moore, established the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation. This private charitable foundation is one of the largest in the United States, dedicating substantial resources to critical areas such as environmental conservation, scientific research, and patient care. Their philanthropic efforts aim to create positive outcomes for future generations by tackling some of the world's most complex challenges.

FAQs About Gordon Moore and His Contributions

Who is Gordon Earle Moore?

Gordon Earle Moore is an American engineer, businessman, and co-founder of Intel Corporation, widely recognized for formulating "Moore's Law," a foundational principle for the semiconductor industry.

What is Moore's Law?

Moore's Law is an empirical observation stating that the number of transistors on a dense integrated circuit doubles approximately every two years, leading to exponential increases in computing power and efficiency. It has been a driving force behind technological progress for decades.

When did Gordon Moore co-found Intel Corporation?

Gordon Moore co-founded Intel Corporation in July 1968 with Robert Noyce. The company quickly became a leading global manufacturer of microprocessors and other semiconductor devices.

What is Gordon Moore's net worth?

As of March 2021, Gordon Moore's net worth was reported to be approximately $12.6 billion, reflecting his immense success and impact in the technology sector.

What philanthropic efforts is Gordon Moore known for?

Gordon Moore, along with his wife Betty, established the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation in 2000. This significant charitable organization supports initiatives in environmental conservation, scientific research, and patient care, making a substantial positive impact globally.