Full Name and Common Aliases

Peter Andreas Thiel, commonly known as Peter Thiel, is a prominent figure in the world of technology and finance. Often referred to simply as "Thiel," he is a name synonymous with innovation, entrepreneurship, and contrarian thinking.

Birth and Death Dates

Peter Thiel was born on October 11, 1967. As of the latest available information, he is alive and continues to influence various sectors through his ventures and investments.

Nationality and Profession(s)

Peter Thiel is an American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author. Born in Germany, he moved to the United States at a young age and has since become a pivotal figure in Silicon Valley and beyond. His professional endeavors span across technology, finance, and philanthropy.

Early Life and Background

Peter Thiel was born in Frankfurt, West Germany, and emigrated to the United States with his family when he was a child. He grew up in Foster City, California, where he displayed an early aptitude for academics and chess. Thiel attended Stanford University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy in 1989. He then pursued a Juris Doctor degree from Stanford Law School, graduating in 1992. During his time at Stanford, Thiel co-founded "The Stanford Review," a conservative-libertarian newspaper that reflected his burgeoning interest in politics and philosophy.

Major Accomplishments

Peter Thiel's career is marked by a series of groundbreaking accomplishments. He co-founded PayPal in 1998, serving as its CEO until its sale to eBay in 2002 for $1.5 billion. This venture not only revolutionized online payments but also laid the foundation for Thiel's future endeavors. In 2004, he made a $500,000 angel investment in Facebook, becoming the first outside investor in the social media giant. This investment significantly amplified his influence and wealth.

Thiel is also the co-founder of Palantir Technologies, a data analytics company that has played a crucial role in both commercial and governmental sectors. His venture capital firm, Founders Fund, has backed numerous successful startups, including SpaceX, LinkedIn, and Yelp, further cementing his status as a visionary investor.

Notable Works or Actions

Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, Peter Thiel is an accomplished author. His book, "Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the Future," co-authored with Blake Masters, offers insights into innovation and entrepreneurship. The book has become a must-read for aspiring entrepreneurs, providing a unique perspective on creating value in a competitive world.

Thiel is also known for his contrarian views and willingness to challenge conventional wisdom. He has been a vocal critic of higher education's status quo, famously establishing the Thiel Fellowship, which awards $100,000 to young people to pursue innovative projects instead of attending college.

Impact and Legacy

Peter Thiel's impact on the technology and finance sectors is profound. As a pioneer of the PayPal Mafia—a group of former PayPal employees and founders who have since founded and invested in numerous successful tech companies—Thiel has played a pivotal role in shaping the modern tech landscape. His investments and leadership have fostered innovation and growth in various industries, from social media to space exploration.

Thiel's legacy is also marked by his philosophical and political contributions. His advocacy for libertarian principles and his support for disruptive technologies reflect his belief in the power of individualism and innovation to drive societal progress.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

Peter Thiel is widely quoted and remembered for his incisive insights into technology, entrepreneurship, and society. His ability to foresee trends and his willingness to take bold risks have made him a respected voice in the business world. Thiel's quotes often challenge conventional thinking, encouraging others to question the status quo and pursue transformative ideas.

His influence extends beyond his business achievements; Thiel's thoughts on the future of technology, the role of government, and the nature of progress continue to inspire and provoke discussion. As a result, he remains a significant figure whose ideas and actions resonate with entrepreneurs, investors, and thinkers around the globe.