Apple was founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne. The company, originally named Apple Computer Company, was created to produce and market Wozniak's Apple I personal computer. Jobs, Wozniak, and Wayne started the company as a partnership, but Wayne left shortly after, selling his shares back to Jobs and Wozniak. The Apple I was designed and hand-built by Wozniak, while Jobs handled the business and sales side of the venture. The company was incorporated as Apple Computer, Inc. in 1977, with financial support from Mike Markkula, who helped fund and guide the company in its early stages.
In summary:
- Founders: Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, Ronald Wayne
- Founded: April 1, 1976
- Original product: Apple I computer designed by Wozniak
- Company incorporated in 1977 with business backing from Mike Markkula
This founding team and their early collaboration laid the groundwork for what would become Apple Inc., a global tech leader.
