Gates, born in Seattle, Washington, in 1955, is an American business magnate, investor, philanthropist, and author. In this biography, children will learn of Gates' childhood passion for computer technology, which led him to revolutionize personal computers. Illustrations. Bill Gates, born in Seattle, Washington, in 1955, is an American business magnate, investor, philanthropist, and author. In this Who Was...? biography, children will learn of Gates' childhood passion for computer technology, which led him to revolutionize personal computers. Through the success of his now-world-famous software company, Microsoft, Bill Gates became one of the wealthiest philanthropists in history.This fascinating story of a child technology genius is sure to captivate any audience!