A Glimpse into the Past: Bill Gates’ Open Letter and the Dawn of the Software Industry,Korben


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A Glimpse into the Past: Bill Gates’ Open Letter and the Dawn of the Software Industry

A recently unearthed open letter penned by a young Bill Gates, dated July 19th, 2025, is shedding new light on the foundational principles that propelled the software industry forward. The letter, published by the renowned technology blog Korben.info, offers a fascinating perspective on how early innovators viewed the concept of software and the pivotal role of “hobbyists” in its development.

The article, titled “Bill Gates et sa lettre ouverte aux hobbyistes – L’histoire du gamin qui a transformé le piratage en industrie du logiciel” (Bill Gates and his open letter to hobbyists – The story of the kid who turned piracy into the software industry), highlights a period of significant evolution in computing. In these formative years, software was often treated as something freely shared and adapted, a stark contrast to the heavily protected intellectual property models prevalent today.

The letter, attributed to a young Bill Gates, is significant for its early articulation of a vision for a commercial software ecosystem. It reportedly addresses the community of computer enthusiasts, or “hobbyists,” who were instrumental in the early days of personal computing. These individuals, often driven by passion and a desire to experiment, were at the forefront of exploring the potential of new technologies.

Korben.info’s publication suggests that Gates’ letter was not just a commentary on the existing landscape but a strategic articulation of a future where software could be a viable business. It’s an intriguing narrative to consider: a young visionary recognizing the immense value in what was, at the time, often perceived as a shared resource. The piece delves into how this mindset, while potentially controversial in its initial framing of “piracy,” ultimately laid the groundwork for the structured software industry we know today, fostering innovation through the creation of commercial products and services.

This historical document offers a valuable educational opportunity, allowing us to understand the entrepreneurial spirit and the often unconventional paths taken by pioneers in the tech world. It serves as a reminder that the foundations of many modern industries were built on a blend of passion, experimentation, and a forward-thinking approach to value creation, even when navigating uncharted territory. The story of Bill Gates, as presented through this open letter, is a compelling testament to the transformative power of ideas and the individuals who dared to shape them.


Bill Gates et sa lettre ouverte aux hobbyistes – L’histoire du gamin qui a transformé le piratage en industrie du logiciel


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Korben published ‘Bill Gates et sa lettre ouverte aux hobbyistes – L’histoire du gamin qui a transformé le piratage en industrie du logiciel’ at 2025-07-19 11:37. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.

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