Melinda french gates biography

• Melinda French Gates is one of the world's richest women, even after her divorce from Bill Gates.
• Bill and Melinda Gates first met at Microsoft, and were married for 27 years.
• Here's what to know about Melinda Gates' life, career, and philanthropic pursuits.

Melinda French Gates, born Melinda Ann French, is 60 years old and one of the richest women — indeed, one of the richest people — alive today.

Though she already enjoyed a successful career before wedding Microsoft founder Bill Gates, her marriage rocketed Melinda Gates through the stratosphere in terms of wealth.

But her main legacy is the money she has given away in the form of charitable works through the Bill and Melinda Gates foundation.

Melinda Gates' early life and career

Gates seemed destined for achievement from a young age, starting with an impressive academic career.

Melinda Gates was bor