George Eastman
- Born:
- July 12, 1854, Waterville, New York, USA
- Died:
- March 14, 1932, Rochester, New York, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, Inventor
Early Life and Education
- Largely self-educated due to financial hardship after his father's death.
- Began working at age 14 to support his family.
- Developed an interest in photography during his employment at a bank.
Career and Major Achievements
- Founded the Eastman Kodak Company in 1888.
- Revolutionized photography by making it accessible to the masses.
- Invented and popularized roll film, simplifying the photographic process.
- Introduced the Kodak camera, a simple and affordable camera pre-loaded with film.
- Pioneered mass production techniques in the photography industry.
- Focused on research and development, leading to continuous improvements in photographic technology.
- Demonstrated a strong commitment to employee welfare through profit-sharing and benefits.
Notable Works
- Kodak camera and roll film.
- Development of flexible transparent film.
- Establishment of the Eastman School of Music.
- Significant philanthropic contributions to education and healthcare institutions.
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Legacy and Impact
- Democratized photography, making it a popular pastime for ordinary people.
- Transformed the photography industry, establishing a global standard.
- Left a lasting legacy of innovation and philanthropy.
- The Eastman Kodak Company remained a dominant force in the photography industry for many years after his death.
- His philanthropic efforts continue to support education and the arts.
Philanthropy
- Major benefactor of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and the University of Rochester.
- Founded the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York.
- Established dental clinics for children in Rochester, London, Paris, Rome, Brussels, and Stockholm.