The major technological figure responsible for founding Microsoft is Bill Gates. Co-founding the company in 1975 with Paul Allen, Gates significantly impacted the personal computer revolution. His vision to put a computer on every desk transformed the software industry and initiated the development of products like Windows. Gates' leadership and innovations established Microsoft as a dominant global technology company. Beyond business, he is known for his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, focusing on global health and education initiatives.