Date of Birth: July 12, 1854
Zodiac Sign: Cancer
Date of Death: March 14, 1932
Biography
George Eastman was an American inventor and entrepreneur who revolutionized the photography industry by founding the Eastman Kodak Company and inventing roll film, which greatly contributed to the development of motion pictures. Born in Waterville, New York, Eastman grew up in modest circumstances. He dropped out of school at the age of 14 to support his family after his father’s death. Eastman’s keen interest in photography led him to invent a simpler and more affordable way to take pictures, ultimately democratizing photography for the masses. His innovations in film technology were pivotal in the development of the motion picture industry. Beyond his business achievements, Eastman was a notable philanthropist, donating substantial sums to educational institutions and medical research.
5 Interesting Facts about George Eastman
1. George Eastman invented the Kodak camera, which was the first camera designed for non-expert use.
2. He created a trust fund for his employees, pioneering the concept of profit-sharing in the United States.
3. Eastman was a major philanthropist, donating over $100 million to various institutions, including the University of Rochester and MIT.
4. He was an advocate for dental health and funded the Eastman Dental Dispensary in 1917.
5. George Eastman was awarded the French Legion of Honor in 1920 for his contributions to science and industry.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from George Eastman
1. “What we do during our working hours determines what we have; what we do in our leisure hours determines what we are.”
2. “The progress of the world depends almost entirely upon education.”
3. “You push the button, we do the rest.”
4. “The rich man who gives, steals twice from the poor: once when he makes his money, once when he gives it away.”
5. “I don’t believe in men waiting until they are ready to die before they do their good deeds.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, George Eastman’s net worth was estimated to be around $100 million, equivalent to several billion dollars today.
Children
George Eastman never married and had no children.
Relevant Links
1. [George Eastman on Britannica](https://www.britannica.com/biography/George-Eastman
2. [Eastman Kodak Company History](https://www.kodak.com/en/company/page/history
3. [George Eastman Museum](https://www.eastman.org/
5. [MIT: George Eastman Contributions](https://libraries.mit.edu/archives/exhibits/eastman/
