Mark Zuckerberg

Facebook Launch at Harvard

Co-founded Facebook from his Harvard dorm room as a college networking site. The platform quickly spread to other universities, showing early signs of its viral potential.

Yahoo Acquisition Offer Rejected

Turned down Yahoo's $1 billion acquisition offer, betting on Facebook's long-term potential despite skepticism from investors. This bold decision would prove prescient as Facebook's growth accelerated.

Facebook IPO

Took Facebook public with a valuation over $100 billion, making Zuckerberg one of the youngest self-made billionaires in history. The IPO solidified Facebook's position as a tech giant despite initial stock struggles.

Instagram and WhatsApp Acquisitions

Completed acquisitions of Instagram ($1B in 2012) and WhatsApp ($19B in 2014), creating a social media empire controlling multiple major platforms. These strategic moves cemented Facebook's dominance for years to come.

Cambridge Analytica Scandal

Testified before Congress regarding Cambridge Analytica data privacy scandal, facing intense scrutiny over Facebook's data practices. Despite the controversy, his control of the company and wealth remained intact.

Meta Rebrand and Metaverse

Rebranded Facebook to Meta Platforms, betting billions on the metaverse as the future of social interaction. This bold strategic pivot demonstrated his willingness to risk short-term losses for long-term transformation.

AI Revolution Leadership

Pivoted Meta's focus to AI development with Llama models and AI integration across platforms, competing with OpenAI and Google. His strategic shift helped restore investor confidence after metaverse skepticism.

Tech Industry Titan

Remains one of the world's wealthiest individuals and most powerful tech CEOs, controlling Meta's social media empire reaching billions globally. Despite controversies, he has fundamentally shaped how humanity communicates in the 21st century.