Who was the third founder of Apple?

Who Was the Third Founder of Apple?

While Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak are famously known as the co-founders of Apple, there's a third key figure often overlooked: Ronald Wayne.

Ronald Wayne's Role:

• Early Investor: Wayne invested a significant sum of $800 in Apple, which was a substantial amount at the time.
• Original Business Partner: He was initially involved in the company's early stages, helping with the design of the Apple I computer and drafting the company's partnership agreement.
• Early Departure: Wayne left Apple just 12 days after its founding, selling his 10% stake for a mere $800.

Why Did Wayne Leave?

• Financial Concerns: Wayne was concerned about the potential financial risks of starting a company.
• Personal Preferences: He realized that he was more suited to working alone rather than in a high-pressure entrepreneurial environment.
• Shifting Focus: As the company gained momentum, Wayne's role and interests diverged from those of Jobs and Wozniak.

Wayne's Legacy:

Despite his short-lived involvement, Ronald Wayne remains a significant figure in Apple's history. His early contribution, particularly in designing the Apple I, played a crucial role in the company's initial success.

Further Exploration:

If you're interested in learning more about Ronald Wayne, consider:

• Reading: Books and articles about the early days of Apple often mention Wayne's role.
• Interviews: There are several interviews with Wayne where he shares his experiences and insights.
• Online Resources: Numerous websites and blogs provide information about the history of Apple, including Wayne's contributions.

Understanding Ronald Wayne's role as the third founder of Apple helps provide a more complete picture of the company's early development.