Challenges in the Life of Steve Jobs in a Detailed Timeline

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Steve Jobs. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Steve Jobs, a pivotal figure in the personal computer revolution, co-founded Apple Inc. in 1976. Following his departure from Apple in 1985, he established NeXT and acquired Pixar, leading it to animation success. He returned to Apple as CEO in 1997, spearheading the development and marketing of iconic products like the iPhone and iPad, transforming Apple into one of the world's most valuable companies. Jobs resigned from Apple in 2011 and passed away shortly after, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and design.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

1975: Homebrew Computer Club and Arrest

In 1975, Steve Jobs attended meetings of the Homebrew Computer Club, a pivotal step towards developing the first Apple computer. Also in 1975, Jobs claimed he was arrested in Eugene, Oregon for allegedly being a minor in possession of alcohol and having an unpaid speeding ticket.

February 1977: Mike Scott Appointed as Apple CEO

In February 1977, Mike Scott from National Semiconductor was recruited to serve as the first president and CEO of Apple, a decision that displeased Steve Jobs.

October 1977: Brennan's Pregnancy and Tensions with Jobs

In October 1977, Chrisann Brennan realized she was pregnant with Steve Jobs's child, leading to strained relations. She turned down an internship at Apple and decided to leave the company.

May 17, 1978: Birth of Lisa Brennan

On May 17, 1978, Chrisann Brennan gave birth to Lisa Brennan at the All One Farm commune, while Jobs was 23. Jobs initially denied paternity but later worked with Brennan on naming the baby.

1983: Development of Apple Lisa

In 1983, Apple developed the Apple Lisa, a computer that was largely unsuccessful, marking a challenging phase in the company's history.

January 1985: Apple's Annual Meeting Omits Apple II

In January 1985, Apple's annual meeting did not mention the Apple II division, despite its products accounting for 85% of the company's sales. This led to frustration and the departure of employees like Steve Wozniak.

May 1985: Sculley Reorganizes Apple

In May 1985, John Sculley decided to reorganize Apple, removing Jobs from the Macintosh group and placing him in charge of "New Product Development".

September 17, 1985: Jobs Resigns from Apple

On September 17, 1985, Steve Jobs submitted his resignation to the Apple Board, and five other senior Apple employees resigned to join him in his new venture, NeXT.

1985: Departure from Apple and Founding of NeXT

In 1985, Jobs left Apple after a power struggle and founded NeXT, a computer platform development company.

1985: Microsoft Threatens to Halt Mac App Development

In 1985, Microsoft threatened to stop developing Mac applications unless granted a license for the Mac operating system software, leading to future problems for Apple.

1985: Jobs starts NeXT

In 1985, after being forced out of Apple, Steve Jobs started NeXT, a workstation computer company.

1986: Clara Jobs diagnosed with Lung Cancer

In 1986, Clara Jobs was diagnosed with lung cancer, which led Steve Jobs to spend time with her and learn more about his adoption, motivating him to find his biological mother.

2003: Diagnosis of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor

In 2003, Steve Jobs was diagnosed with a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor, marking the beginning of his health challenges.

July 2004: Jobs undergoes surgery for pancreatic cancer

In July 2004, Steve Jobs underwent a pancreaticoduodenectomy, also known as the "Whipple procedure," to remove a cancerous tumor from his pancreas. This surgery was performed after he initially pursued alternative treatments for nine months.

January 2006: Cancer recurrence known to a select few

In January 2006, only Steve Jobs's wife, his doctors, and Bob Iger knew that his cancer had returned.

August 2006: Jobs's appearance at WWDC sparks health concerns

In early August 2006, Steve Jobs delivered the keynote at Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). His thin appearance and listless delivery led to speculation about his health, though some attendees said he looked fine. Apple spokesperson maintained that "Steve's health is robust".

July 1, 2008: Class action suit filed against Apple board members

On July 1, 2008, a $7 billion class action suit was filed against several members of the Apple board of directors for revenue lost because of alleged securities fraud.

August 28, 2008: Bloomberg mistakenly publishes Jobs's obituary

On August 28, 2008, Bloomberg mistakenly published Steve Jobs's obituary, which intensified rumors about his health. The error was quickly rectified.

December 16, 2008: Phil Schiller to deliver Macworld keynote

On December 16, 2008, Apple announced that Phil Schiller would deliver the keynote address at Macworld Conference and Expo 2009, reviving questions about Steve Jobs's health.

2008: Health concerns following 2008 WWDC Keynote Address

In 2008, concerns arose after Steve Jobs's WWDC keynote address. Apple officials attributed it to a "common bug," while others speculated about the Whipple procedure. During a July conference call, Apple insisted it was a "private matter".

January 5, 2009: Jobs cites hormone imbalance

On January 5, 2009, Steve Jobs stated he had been suffering from a "hormone imbalance" for several months.

January 14, 2009: Jobs announces six-month leave of absence

On January 14, 2009, Steve Jobs announced a six-month leave of absence to focus on his health. Tim Cook became acting CEO, with Jobs still involved in major decisions.

April 2009: Jobs undergoes liver transplantation

In April 2009, Steve Jobs underwent a liver transplantation at Methodist University Hospital Transplant Institute in Memphis, Tennessee. His prognosis was described as "excellent".

January 17, 2011: Jobs granted another leave of absence

On January 17, 2011, Apple announced that Steve Jobs had been granted another leave of absence to focus on his health. Tim Cook would run day-to-day operations and Jobs would remain involved in major strategic decisions.

August 24, 2011: Jobs resigns as Apple CEO

On August 24, 2011, Steve Jobs announced his resignation as Apple's CEO due to his inability to meet the duties and expectations. He became chairman of the board, with Tim Cook as his successor. Jobs continued to work for Apple until the day before his death.