George Eastman

George Eastman born in Waterville, New York, USA was a pioneering inventor, industrialist, and philanthropist whose vision transformed photography, motion pictures, and how the world preserved memories.

In 1888, he founded the Eastman Kodak Company and revolutionized photography with roll film and the first Kodak camera, promising: “You press the button, we do the rest.” His innovations made photography simple, affordable, and accessible to families, travelers, artists, and professionals worldwide, laying the foundation for the motion picture industry as well.

Starting as a bank clerk with a passion for photography, Eastman spent years experimenting until he perfected flexible roll film. Under his leadership, Kodak became the primary supplier of film to early Hollywood, shaping the future of cinema and dominating the global photography market by the early 20th century.

Beyond business, Eastman was a visionary philanthropist. He established the Eastman School of Music, the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, medical and dental schools at the University of Rochester, and clinics across Europe. He also supported historically Black colleges like Tuskegee and Hampton Universities and funded MIT’s expansion.

Progressive for his era, Eastman introduced employee profit-sharing, retirement plans, and even supported the idea of a global fixed calendar. A lover of music, culture, and travel, he hosted concerts and honored his mother’s memory through Rochester’s Kilbourn Hall.