Biography of Larry Ellison

Full Name and Common Aliases

Full Name: Lawrence Joseph Ellison
Common Aliases: Larry Ellison

Birth and Death Dates

Born: August 17, 1944
Death: N/A

Nationality and Profession(s)

Nationality: American
Profession(s): Business Magnate, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist

Early Life and Background

Lawrence Joseph Ellison, commonly known as Larry Ellison, was born on August 17, 1944, in New York City. His early life was marked by significant challenges and transitions. Born to an unwed Jewish mother, Ellison was adopted by his aunt and uncle in Chicago after contracting pneumonia at the age of nine months. His adoptive father, Louis Ellison, was a government employee who struggled financially, which instilled in Larry a drive to succeed and a resilience that would later define his career.

Ellison's academic journey was unconventional. He attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign but left before completing his degree after his adoptive mother passed away. He later enrolled at the University of Chicago but dropped out after one semester. Despite his lack of formal education, Ellison's curiosity and passion for technology led him to California during the 1960s, where he began working as a computer programmer.

Major Accomplishments

Larry Ellison's most significant accomplishment is the founding of Oracle Corporation in 1977, alongside partners Bob Miner and Ed Oates. Originally named Software Development Laboratories, the company was later renamed Oracle after its flagship product, the Oracle Database. Under Ellison's leadership, Oracle grew from a small start-up into one of the world's largest software companies, specializing in database management systems, cloud solutions, and enterprise software.

Ellison's vision and business acumen were instrumental in Oracle's success. He pioneered the concept of the relational database, which revolutionized how data was stored and accessed, making it more efficient and scalable. This innovation positioned Oracle as a leader in the technology industry and set the standard for database management.

Notable Works or Actions

Beyond Oracle, Ellison is known for his strategic acquisitions and investments. He orchestrated several high-profile acquisitions, including the purchase of Sun Microsystems in 2010, which expanded Oracle's product offerings and solidified its position in the hardware and software markets. Ellison's bold and sometimes controversial business strategies have been a hallmark of his career, often drawing both admiration and criticism.

In addition to his business ventures, Ellison is a noted philanthropist. He has pledged significant portions of his wealth to charitable causes, particularly in medical research and education. His commitment to philanthropy is exemplified by his participation in The Giving Pledge, a campaign encouraging billionaires to give away the majority of their wealth.

Impact and Legacy

Larry Ellison's impact on the technology industry is profound. His contributions to database technology have transformed how businesses operate, enabling them to manage vast amounts of data efficiently. Oracle's products are used by thousands of companies worldwide, influencing industries ranging from finance to healthcare.

Ellison's legacy extends beyond technology. His leadership style, characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a willingness to take risks, has inspired a generation of entrepreneurs. His story of rising from humble beginnings to become one of the world's wealthiest individuals serves as a testament to the power of determination and innovation.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

Larry Ellison is widely quoted and remembered for his insightful and often provocative statements about business, technology, and life. His quotes reflect his bold personality and his belief in challenging the status quo. Ellison's ability to articulate complex ideas in a straightforward manner has made his words resonate with audiences around the world.

His quotes often emphasize the importance of innovation, competition, and perseverance, offering valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders. Ellison's influence on the technology industry and his role as a visionary leader ensure that his words continue to inspire and provoke thought long after they are spoken.

In summary, Larry Ellison's remarkable journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a titan of the technology industry is a story of innovation, resilience, and impact. His contributions to technology and his distinctive leadership style have left an indelible mark on the world, making him a figure whose words and actions are remembered and quoted by many.