How Steve Jobs Shaped the Future: A Legacy Timeline

How the contributions of Steve Jobs continue to shape the world today.

Steve Jobs was a pivotal figure in the personal computer revolution. As co-founder of Apple Inc., he spearheaded the development of groundbreaking products, transforming the technology industry. He also founded NeXT and led Pixar to unprecedented success in animation. Jobs was renowned for his innovative vision, design aesthetic, and relentless pursuit of perfection, shaping the landscape of modern technology and entertainment.

Sections (7)

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

February 24, 1955: Birth of Steve Jobs

On February 24, 1955, Steven Paul Jobs was born. He later became known as a co-founder of Apple Inc., founder of NeXT, and chairman/majority shareholder of Pixar.

1985: Jobs commented on money

In 1985, Steve Jobs stated, "You know, my main reaction to this money thing is that it's humorous, all the attention to it, because it's hardly the most insightful or valuable thing that's happened to me."

1994: Interview Regarding Blue Boxes

In a 1994 interview, Steve Jobs recalled that it took six months for him and Wozniak to design the blue boxes.

2005: Stanford Commencement Speech

In a 2005 commencement speech at Stanford University, Steve Jobs spoke about dropping in on a calligraphy course and its influence on the Mac's typography.

January 2007: Jobs Quotes Wayne Gretzky at Macworld Conference

At the end of his keynote speech at the Macworld Conference and Expo in January 2007, Steve Jobs summed up his self-concept by quoting ice hockey player Wayne Gretzky.

2010: iPhone included in All-TIME 100 Gadgets list

In 2010, Time included the iPhone in the All-TIME 100 Gadgets list, in the category of Communication.

August 24, 2011: Jobs Resigns as Apple CEO

On August 24, 2011, Steve Jobs announced his resignation as Apple's CEO, stating he could no longer meet the duties and expectations of the role. He became chairman of the board, and Tim Cook was named his successor as CEO.

October 5, 2011: Death of Steve Jobs

October 5, 2011 marks the date of Steve Jobs's death. He was an American businessman, inventor, and investor best known for co-founding Apple Inc.

October 16, 2011: Steve Jobs Day and Memorial at Stanford

On October 16, 2011, California Governor Jerry Brown declared it to be "Steve Jobs Day". On that day, an invitation-only memorial was held at Stanford University with high security. Attendees included tech company executives, media, celebrities, politicians, and Jobs's family and friends.

October 19, 2011: Apple Memorial Service for Steve Jobs

On October 19, 2011, Apple employees held a private memorial service for Steve Jobs on the Apple campus in Cupertino. The memorial was attended by Jobs's widow, Laurene, Tim Cook, and other notable figures.

2011: Death of Steve Jobs

In 2011, Steve Jobs died of tumor-related respiratory arrest.

2012: Release of Brave and Tribute to Jobs

In 2012, Brave, Pixar's first film produced since Steve Jobs's death, was released and honored him with a tribute for his contributions to the studio.

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2013: Declaration of Historic Site

In 2013, The Jobs' family house in Los Altos was declared a historic site as the first site of Apple Computer.

June 2014: Edwin Catmull Reveals Jobs's Advice

In early June 2014, Pixar cofounder Edwin Catmull revealed that Steve Jobs once advised him to "just explain it to them until they understand" in disagreements.