George Eastman

Profession: Inventor and Founder of the Eastman Kodak Company

Nationality:

Biography: George Eastman was an American entrepreneur who founded the Eastman Kodak Company and popularized the use of roll film, helping to bring photography to the mainstream.

Eastman's key innovation was the development of roll film, which was more convenient and accessible than the photographic plates that were commonly used at the time. His slogan, "You press the button, we do the rest," encapsulated his vision of making photography simple and accessible to the general public.

In 1888, the first Kodak camera was introduced, pre-loaded with enough film for 100 exposures. It was a simple box camera that truly brought photography to the masses: relatively affordable, portable, and easy to use. Once the film was finished, the entire camera was sent back to Kodak, where the film was developed, prints were made, and a reloaded camera was returned to the customer.

Eastman's contributions went beyond photography. He was also known for his philanthropy, donating significant amounts of his wealth to various institutions and causes, such as the University of Rochester and the establishment of the Eastman School of Music. He also contributed to historically black colleges and universities and other community and educational facilities.

Eastman's impact on business practices was also notable. He was a pioneer in the development of employee benefit programs, including profit sharing, life insurance, and retirement annuities, to ensure the welfare of his workers.

Despite his success and contributions to society, Eastman faced health problems in his later years, suffering from a spinal disorder that caused him constant pain. He ended his own life in 1932, leaving behind a note that read, "To my friends, my work is done — Why wait?"

Born: July 12, 1854
Birthplace: Waterville, New York, USA
Star Sign: Cancer

Died: March 14, 1932 (aged 77)
Cause of Death: Suicide