Larry Ellison (b.1944,) fully Lawrence Joseph Ellison, is an American entrepreneur and business magnate, best known as the co-founder of Oracle Corporation, a global leader in database software and cloud computing. His vision has shaped the technology industry for decades.
Born in New York City, Ellison was adopted by his aunt and uncle and raised in Chicago. He briefly attended the University of Illinois and the University of Chicago but left before earning a degree. In 1977, he co-founded Software Development Laboratories, later renamed Oracle Corporation. Inspired by Edgar F. Codd’s research on relational databases, Ellison and his team developed Oracle Database, revolutionizing data management.
Under his leadership, Oracle expanded aggressively, acquiring Sun Microsystems (2009) and NetSuite (2016.) He served as CEO 1977–2014 before transitioning to executive chairman and chief technology officer. One of the world’s wealthiest individuals, he continues shaping enterprise computing.
Ellison has authored technical publications on database systems, though his primary contributions lie in business strategy and innovation. His influence extends beyond technology—he owns 98% of Lāna’i, a Hawaiian island, and has invested in America’s Cup sailing and Tesla Inc.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Larry Ellison
When you innovate, you’ve got to be prepared for everyone telling you you’re nuts.
—Larry Ellison
Topics: Innovation
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