Timeline: History of Microsoft | Timetoast

Period: Jan 18, 1975 to Jan 18, 2012

History of Microsoft
Apr 18, 1975

Microsoft is Founded

Microsoft starts. Founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen
Nov 10, 1983

Microsoft Windows Debut

Windows was the first Home operating system for Personal Compueter. (PC)
Nov 20, 1985

Windows 1.0 Released

The first version of Microsofts windows.
Dec 9, 1987

Windows 2 Released

The second version of Microsoft windows
Dec 9, 1987

Windows/386 Released
May 22, 1990

Windows 3 Released
Feb 24, 1995

Windows 95 Released
Jul 29, 1996

Windows 4 Released
Nov 18, 1996

Windows CE Released
Jun 11, 1998

Windows 98 Released
Feb 17, 2000

Windows 2000 Released
Oct 25, 2001

Windows XP Released
Nov 15, 2001

X-box is Released

Microsofts first video game console.
Sep 24, 2002

Microsoft buys Rare

Rare is responsable for making games like Banjo-Kazooie and Perfect Dark on the Nintendo 64. Microsoft bought it for $375 million dollars.
Nov 16, 2002

X-box Live

First console that allows online play.
Nov 22, 2005

X-box 360 Released

Following the success of their first system, Microsoft creates the x-box 360.
Apr 6, 2006

Microsoft buys Lionhead Studios

Lionhead is a British Gaming company that started in 2001. They made popular games like the fable series.
Nov 30, 2006

Windows Vista Realeased
Oct 22, 2009

Windows 7 Released

The current and most up to date version of windows
May 9, 2011

Microsoft buys Skype

Skype is a popular free video and voice chat app on the computer. Microsoft bought it for 8.5 billion.