60 Minutes

The Original Silicon Valley Boys | 60 Minutes: A Second Look

4 snips
Nov 26, 2024
Margaret O'Mara, a history professor at the University of Washington and author known for her insights on Silicon Valley, dives into the fascinating tales of its early tech leaders like Adam Osborne and Jerry Sanders. The conversation explores how their bold innovations shaped personal computing and the tech culture we know today. O'Mara reflects on past predictions versus modern realities, connecting early insights on technology's impact to current discussions around artificial intelligence and emphasizes the importance of understanding its societal implications.
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ANECDOTE

Silicon Valley's Transformation

  • Morley Safer visited Silicon Valley in 1982, a region transitioning from plum orchards to tech companies.
  • The story, "Valley Boys," captured the era's excitement and strangeness.
INSIGHT

Computers Enter Homes

  • In 1982, less than 10% of American households owned computers, and tech reporting was nascent.
  • The shift of computers from mysterious backroom machines to household items marked a turning point.
ANECDOTE

Jerry Sanders and AMD

  • Jerry Sanders, known for his flamboyant style, founded Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) after being fired.
  • His company's microchips played a vital role in the Space Shuttle program and promised to revolutionize daily life.
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