Early Life and Education of Robert Gates: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 17, 2026

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Robert Gates. From birth to education, explore key events.

Robert Gates is an American intelligence analyst and university president, currently serving as the chancellor of the College of William and Mary since 2012. He is most notable for his prior roles as the 22nd United States Secretary of Defense from 2006 to 2011, under Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, and as the 15th Director of Central Intelligence from 1991 to 1993, under President George H.W. Bush. His career reflects a significant involvement in national security and higher education.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Controversies & Scandals

September 25, 1943: Robert Gates' birth

On September 25, 1943, Robert Michael Gates was born. He later became an intelligence analyst, university president, the 22nd United States Secretary of Defense, and the 15th Director of Central Intelligence.

Others born on this day/year

1961: Graduated from Wichita High School East

In 1961, Robert Gates graduated from Wichita High School East.

1965: Graduation from College of William & Mary

In 1965, Robert Gates graduated from the College of William & Mary with a B.A. in history. He was also awarded the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award.

1966: Received Master of Arts from Indiana University

In 1966, Robert Gates received a Master of Arts degree in the history of Eastern Europe and the south Slavs from Indiana University Bloomington. He was recruited by the Central Intelligence Agency in the same year.

January 7, 1967: Robert Gates married Rebecca "Becky" Wilkie

On January 7, 1967, Robert Gates married Rebecca "Becky" Wilkie. The couple went on to have two children.

1974: Completed PhD at Georgetown University

In 1974, Robert Gates completed his PhD in Russian and Soviet history at Georgetown University. His doctoral dissertation was titled Soviet Sinology: An Untapped Source for Kremlin Views and Disputes Relating to Contemporary Events in China and it is available from University Microfilms International as document number 7421652.

1998: Awarded honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from William & Mary

In 1998, Robert Gates was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from the College of William & Mary.

1998: Conferred honorary degree by the College of William & Mary

In 1998, the College of William & Mary conferred upon Robert Gates an honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.

August 10, 2007: Received honorary doctoral degrees from Texas A&M

On August 10, 2007, Robert Gates and his wife Becky received honorary doctoral degrees from Texas A&M.

2011: Awarded honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from the University of Oklahoma

In 2011, Robert Gates was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from the University of Oklahoma.

2012: Awarded honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Kansas State University

In 2012, Robert Gates was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Kansas State University.

2014: Awarded honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Georgetown University

In 2014, Robert Gates was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Georgetown University.

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