A visual timeline of pivotal founders and the eras they defined.
John D. Rockefeller incorporates Standard Oil in Ohio, pioneering the modern energy industry and corporate trusts. It would rapidly grow to control 90% of U.S. refineries.
Henry Ford launches his third automotive venture. By 1908, the Model T is introduced, and by 1913, the moving assembly line changes manufacturing forever.
Madam C.J. Walker invents a line of African American hair care products. Over the next decade, she trains thousands of sales agents, becoming a pioneer of multi-level marketing and female entrepreneurship.
Walt Disney and his brother Roy open a small animation studio in Hollywood. Five years later, "Steamboat Willie" debuts, introducing the world to Mickey Mouse and synchronized sound in animation.
Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak found Apple in Jobs' family garage. Their vision of personal computers for everyday people ignites the digital revolution.
Jeff Bezos leaves his Wall Street job to start an online bookstore from his garage in Bellevue, Washington, foreseeing the explosive growth of internet commerce.