George Eastman

Date of Birth: July 12, 1854

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: March 14, 1932

Biography

George Eastman was an American entrepreneur and inventor who revolutionized the field of photography by making it accessible to the masses. Born in Waterville, New York, Eastman founded the Eastman Kodak Company and invented the roll of film, which replaced the cumbersome glass plates that were previously used in photography. His innovations led to the creation of the Kodak camera in 1888, which was the first camera designed for non-professional users. Eastman’s contributions extended beyond photography; he was also a significant philanthropist, donating more than $100 million to various institutions, including the University of Rochester and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Eastman is remembered not just for his technological contributions, but also for his impact on education and healthcare through his generous donations.

5 Interesting Facts about George Eastman

1. George Eastman coined the slogan “You press the button, we do the rest” for the Kodak camera.

2. He founded the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York.

3. Eastman was a pioneer in workplace benefits, introducing the first profit-sharing plan in the U.S.

4. He was a major benefactor of dental clinics for low-income families in London and other cities.

5. Eastman was an avid traveler and photographer, often using his own products to document his journeys.

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. “Photography is a universal language.”

4. “The idea gradually dawned on me that the camera was just one of the important factors in photography. The thing that was lacking was a flexible, transparent film or support.”

5. “A picture is a save button for the mind’s eye.”